Luka Doncic puts on a show in Chicago, but warns the Lakers: “We can’t relax”

Luka Doncic walks off the United Center floor with the smile of someone who knows he made the difference. The Los Angeles Lakers’ 129-118 win over the Chicago Bulls clearly bears his signature – not only because of the numbers he put up, but also for the attitude he showed throughout all 38 minutes on the court.

The victory gives the Lakers their second straight win and marks the best possible start to a long five-game road trip away from Los Angeles.

Doncic’s performance was one to remember: 46 points, eight threes, seven rebounds, and 11 assists, shooting an excellent 15-for-25 from the field. Numbers that only partially capture the real impact he had on the game.

Speaking to Spectrum SportsNet, Doncic explained the approach he took against the Bulls’ defense:

They were trying to blitz and switch coverages. I just tried to stay aggressive, attack the paint, and create from there.

Luka Doncic

A clear-headed read of the game, confirming how Doncic is managing contests with increasing control – knowing exactly when to score and when to involve his teammates.

One detail to fix: the third quarter

Despite the near-perfect night, Doncic didn’t shy away from a critical analysis. His focus turned to an area the Lakers still need to improve:

We did a good job in the first half, then in the third quarter we relaxed, like it happened in Dallas. We need to work on that.

Luka Doncic

It’s a significant observation, coming from the player leading the team, and it underlines how the Lakers’ growth also depends on maintaining intensity for the full 48 minutes.

LeBron, Hachimura, and a team finding its rhythm again

Alongside Doncic, LeBron James finished with 24 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists, while Rui Hachimura delivered a crucial contribution off the bench: 23 points on 9-of-11 shooting.

Unsurprisingly, Doncic had high praise for his teammate:

Rui was really amazing.

Luka Doncic

Overall, the Lakers shot 56% from the field and a solid 16-for-33 from three, building a lead that reached +20 during the game. Numbers that confirm a team on the rise after a recent slump that had raised concerns for head coach JJ Redick.

With four wins in their last five games, Los Angeles appears to have rediscovered continuity and confidence. The next test will come Wednesday, against the Cleveland Cavaliers.