Doncic makes headlines on Defense, too: “I know I’ve improved”
Luka Doncic scores 45 points against the Toronto Raptors, but this time his defense gets most of the attention. And the Slovenian star takes the opportunity to answer his critics
When it comes to Luka Doncic, his offensive numbers barely make headlines anymore. Against the Toronto Raptors, the Slovenian star led the Los Angeles Lakers to a 131-125 win with 45 points, his third performance of at least 40 in the last four games. Yet this time, it was primarily his work at the other end of the floor that got people talking.
Doncic finished with 5 steals and 3 charges drawn, becoming the first player to record both in the same game since tracking of those statistics began in 2013/14. He also grabbed 15 rebounds, all on the defensive glass.
The performance gave the Slovenian star a chance to get a few things off his chest, responding to those who still consider him a defensive liability.
Obviously, I’m not the best defender in the NBA, but I think I’ve taken a big step forward this year. People can say whatever they want about me, but I know I’ve improved, and my teammates know it, too
Luka Doncic
JJ Redick also highlighted Luka’s progress, emphasizing his willingness to sacrifice for the team.
Taking a charge is also a form of leadership. It means putting your body on the line for the team. Luka wants to win, and his competitiveness shows not only on offense but on defense, too
JJ Redick
Walker Kessler, who arrived in Los Angeles over the summer to strengthen a defense that struggled considerably last season, agreed.
Five steals and three charges drawn is incredible. Luka doesn’t get enough credit for what he does defensively
Walker Kessler
When told of his teammate’s and coach’s praise during his press conference, Doncic smiled and offered a telling response:
Finally
Luka Doncic
The Slovenian star then admitted he doesn’t fully understand why he developed such a poor defensive reputation, while acknowledging that he only began looking to draw charges more frequently after joining the Lakers.
It gives the whole team energy. I wanted to improve in that area, and I’d say three charges drawn in one game isn’t bad
Luka Doncic
His progress hasn’t gone unnoticed by opponents, either. Raptors coach Darko Rajakovic highlighted the Slovenian star’s conditioning, with Doncic looking particularly fit early this season.
He came back in great shape this year. He looks good physically, and when he’s healthy and ready to play, he’s simply unstoppable
Darko Rajakovic
After a night like that, though, Luka Doncic is already focused on recovery. He offered a straightforward rundown of his plans for the coming hours:
I need to rest, take a cold bath, get a massage and rest some more. See you tomorrow
Darko Rajakovic
Scoring has never been a problem, but now Doncic appears determined to change how he’s judged at the other end of the floor, too. And after the game against Toronto, at least, he has some evidence to support his case.