Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (R) drives the ball previous Dallas Mavericks guard Max Christie (L) on Tuesday in Los Angeles. Picture by Allison Dinner/EPA-EFE
Feb. 26 (UPI) — Luka Doncic stared down the Dallas Mavericks bench, a number of former teammates, epitomizing an emotional matchup whereas main the Los Angeles Lakers to victory along with his first triple-double for the franchise.
Doncic totaled 19 factors, 15 rebounds and 12 assists within the 107-99 victory Tuesday in Los Angeles. Lakers ahead LeBron James chipped in 27 factors and 12 rebounds. Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving scored a game-high 35.
“It was so bizarre, the moments, I felt like I did not know what I used to be doing,” Doncic informed reporters. “I am glad we received a win.”
Doncic, who logged 80 triple-doubles over his first six-and-a-half seasons with the Mavericks, scored 12 factors within the first half. He made 6 of 17 shot makes an attempt general.
Probably the most emotion-fueled moments of the sport got here when Doncic hit his lone 3-pointer with about six minutes remaining within the first quarter. Ahead Dorian Finney-Smith tracked down a unfastened ball on the play. He threw a go to Doncic simply earlier than he may fall out of bounds. Doncic caught the bounce go, squared up and hit the deep shot for a 19-14 Lakers lead.
He then turned and appeared on the Mavericks bench, shouting towards the realm in celebration of the shot.
“It was a variety of feelings, clearly,” Doncic stated. “I am unable to even clarify it. It was a distinct recreation. … Generally I did not know what I used to be doing. I am simply glad it is over, actually.”
Tuesday’s recreation featured simply two lead adjustments and was tied thrice. The Lakers outscored the Mavericks 52-34 within the paint and 20-13 off quick breaks.
They led by as many as 16 factors.
James scored 16 factors within the fourth quarter to assist the Lakers safe their third consecutive victory.
The Lakers (35-21) will host the Minnesota Timberwolves (32-27) at 10:30 p.m. EST Thursday in Los Angeles. The Mavericks (31-28) will host the Charlotte Hornets (14-43) at 8:30 p.m. Thursday in Dallas.