Eric Collins Calls Luka Dončić a 'Whiner' During Lakers' 135-117 Loss to Hornets
The on-air jab intensified scrutiny of Dončić's officiating complaints, highlighting concerns about the Lakers' defense.
Overview
- Collins made the remark as Dončić argued a no-call, a sequence that included a technical foul and a Hornets four-point play, per game coverage.
- Los Angeles fell 135-117 at home despite 39 points from Dončić and 29 from LeBron James.
- Marcus Smart criticized players for talking to officials instead of getting back on defense in postgame comments.
- Some Lakers fans on social media endorsed Smart's message and cited Dončić's frequent disputes with referees.
- The broadcast noted Dončić has 11 technical fouls this season, reportedly the second-most, as the 24-15 Lakers navigate a tight West playoff race.