Rui Hachimura, JJ Redick honest in defense of Luka Doncic
The Los Angeles Lakers recorded their fifth consecutive victory after squeaking past the San Antonio Spurs, 118-116, at Cripto.com Arena on Wednesday, with Luka Dončić waving his magic wand once more.
Doncic showed all-around performance with 35 points, nine rebounds, 13 assists, five steals and two blocks. He scored at will and toyed with a hapless Spurs defense, even leaving LeBron James and Austin Reeves in disbelief on the bench at one point.
But while his attack was once again on display, some highlighted Doncic’s defensive effort as well. It’s no secret that the five-time All-Star has been criticized for his defense and is an easy target for opposing teams.
But after the victory over Spurs, Dončić’s defense received high praise from the Lakers.
“I’ve never seen him like that. But you know, he’s trying to be more aggressive (on defense), and that’s what we need from him,” he said. Rui Hachimurawho contributed 15 points on 55.6% shooting from the field, according to the Los Angeles Times’ Thuc Nhi Nguyen.
Coach JJ Redick echoed Hachimura’s remark, noting that Doncic’s defense has generally been “really good” this season.
“There was no matador defense. He still guarded, and that was huge. The reason we won was because we guarded in the fourth quarter. Our defense in the fourth quarter was No. 1 and that’s why we won,” Redick added.
26-year-old Dončić was on another level in his second season with the Purple and Gold. His lean build helped him become more active on both ends while also increasing his stamina.
If he gets even more involved on defense, the Lakers will really be a tough challenge.
Doncic is averaging career highs of 40.0 points and 11.0 rebounds along with 9.2 assists and 2.0 steals.
The Lakers will begin a five-game road trip against the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday.
2025-11-07 02:26:00
