The Los Angeles Lakers took down the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday night with a hard-fought 108-102 victory, led by their new star Luka Doncic. Despite his stellar performance, Doncic didn’t shy away from admitting the team didn’t play at its best.
After the game, Doncic spoke to Spectrum SportsNet and shared his thoughts on the overall performance. “I don’t even think we played well. We had a lot of turnovers. Our defense was good at times, but we also made mistakes. But we stuck together and kept trying. They went on a run, and we responded—that’s what we do.”
Doncic also addressed the defensive effort from Clippers guard Kris Dunn and how he approached the matchup. “It doesn’t make much of a difference to me. You just have to take what the defense gives you. As I always say, it’s like playing chess. You just have to figure it out.”
When asked about the team’s chemistry and direction, Doncic expressed confidence in their growth. “I think everybody knows their role, where they need to be. Obviously, we’re not there yet, but we’re getting better.” Additionally, he was asked if he enjoys playing at Crypto.com Arena. “Hell yeah! it ‘s nice.”
Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on during the first half of a game against the Dallas Mavericks at Crypto.com Arena on February 25, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.
Why did Luka Doncic leave the game?
Despite the win, the Lakers faced some concerns when Doncic briefly exited the game. According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, Doncic took a knee to his right leg for the third consecutive game.
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“Third straight game, same spot,” Doncic said. “I was struggling a little with that right leg, but I’m good.” The injury forced him to leave the game in the first quarter, but he returned and played the rest of the way without major issues.
JJ Redick on the Lakers’ performance
Lakers assistant coach JJ Redick echoed Doncic’s sentiments, acknowledging the team’s struggles but emphasizing their effort—especially considering they were without key contributors Rui Hachimura and Austin Reaves.
“Tonight wasn’t perfect in terms of execution, but we made up for it with our effort,” Redick said. He also made it clear that the Lakers’ focus remains on securing a playoff spot rather than worrying about seeding.
“I want to make the playoffs. I don’t want to be in the Play-In. Until that’s secured, I won’t even think about seeding.” With the win, the Lakers currently hold the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference as they continue their push toward the NBA postseason.
