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Luka Dončić’s Defensive Showcase Lifts Lakers Over Spurs in 118–116 Duel

Praise from teammates, JJ Redick, Marcus Smart fueled early Defensive Player of the Year chatter around his performance.

Overview

  • Luka Dončić delivered 35 points, 13 assists, 9 rebounds, 5 steals and 2 blocks in the Lakers’ 118–116 win over the Spurs at Crypto.com Arena.
  • Rui Hachimura highlighted Dončić’s increased defensive aggression, and coach JJ Redick credited fourth‑quarter stops as the decisive factor.
  • Former DPOY Marcus Smart celebrated Dončić’s five steals and two blocks, publicly touting him as a potential DPOY candidate.
  • Redick cited Dončić’s resiliency and poise leading the group with LeBron James and Austin Reaves unavailable, calling it an area of growth.
  • Victor Wembanyama finished with 19 points and 8 rebounds in the loss, though he remains off to a strong season and an early DPOY favorite per Lakers Nation.