Doncic’s Historic Start Fuels Lakers’ Victory Over Timberwolves
Luka Doncic’s explosive performance, highlighted by 49 points, propelled the Los Angeles Lakers to a 128-110 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday, shattering a 56-year-old franchise record and sparking debate about his potential to average 40 points per game.
The Lakers’ offense, revitalized by Doncic’s dominance, showcased a dramatic improvement from Tuesday’s season-opening loss to the Golden State Warriors. The team shot 59.2% from the field, a significant jump from the 54.5% achieved earlier in the week, and connected on 41.4% of their three-point attempts, compared to a mere 25% in their first game. A reduction in turnovers – 12 compared to 19 – further contributed to the team’s success.
Doncic’s scoring outburst not only secured the victory but also etched his name into Lakers’ history. He became the first player in franchise history to record consecutive 40-point games to begin a season, joining NBA legends Anthony Davis, Michael Jordan, and Wilt Chamberlain as the only players to achieve this feat. Through the first two games of the season, Doncic has amassed a remarkable 92 points, surpassing Jerry West’s longstanding record of 81 points set in 1968.
“He’s so good, it’s weird,” remarked a teammate, echoing the sentiment of many witnessing Doncic’s exceptional play.
The game saw the Lakers overcome an early 11-point deficit, fueled by Doncic’s 23 first-quarter points, tying Kobe Bryant and Kyle Kuzma for the most points scored in a single quarter in team history. The team then dominated the middle two quarters, outscoring the Timberwolves 72-54.
Despite the impressive performance, Doncic remained focused on the bigger picture. “I wish we won the first game, but obviously it’s a good comeback,” he stated after finishing 14-for-23 from the floor, including 5-for-12 from three-point range, and 16-for-19 from the free throw line. “I think Minnesota is a great team. We had to do a lot to win today. But myself, I feel great. I want to win every game.”
Doncic also contributed 11 rebounds and eight assists, achieving a double-double alongside Austin Reaves (25 points, 11 assists, 7 rebounds). Rui Hachimura added 23 points on an efficient 10-for-13 shooting, while Deandre Ayton chipped in with 15 points and eight rebounds.
“He, of course, dominates the whole game so easily,” Hachimura observed. “And it’s not some random team we played against. They’re a Western Conference finals team. So this is crazy.”
The victory held particular significance for Ayton, marking his first win as a Laker. Having previously faced Doncic’s scoring prowess with the Phoenix Suns, Ayton expressed his awe. “Just like the same way I see it when I’m on the other side – shocked,” he said. “Like, ‘Oh my God, I can’t believe he’s doing this. When is he going to miss?’ You know, things like that.”
Lakers coach JJ Redick even playfully chided Doncic during a late timeout, urging him to reach the 50-point milestone. “I’m trying to get the guy 50, and yeah, I’d already given him three chances,” Redick admitted. “I gave a fourth chance. He gets fouled and then he blows that, too.”
The team’s improved performance also reflected a conscious effort to address their struggles in the third quarter of Tuesday’s game against the Warriors, where they were outscored 35-25. On Friday, players proactively began warming up on the court even before the halftime show – featuring a hand-balancing acrobat and his dog – had concluded. This proactive approach translated into a dominant 40-31 third quarter for the Lakers.
“I think for the first time in Lakers history, the other team called the first timeout in the third quarter,” Redick noted with satisfaction.
While Doncic ultimately finished with 49 points, the game underscored his transformative impact on the Lakers’ offense and ignited speculation about his potential to average 40 points per game. The question remains whether this scoring output can translate into sustained success and championship contention for the Lakers. .
