Luka Doncic’s Defensive Masterclass Earns Praise After 45-Point Lakers Win

Posted : 02 November 2026

Luka Doncic delivered another outstanding offensive display on Sunday, scoring 45 points to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 131-125 victory over the Toronto Raptors. However, it was his improved defensive performance that attracted just as much attention after the game.

The Slovenian guard recorded five steals and drew three offensive fouls, becoming the first NBA player to achieve both figures in the same game since player tracking began during the 2013-14 season, according to ESPN Research. He also collected a season-best 15 rebounds as the Lakers secured their home victory.

Doncic, who entered the contest as the league’s leading scorer with an average of 37.7 points per game, has now produced three 40-point performances in his last four outings. Despite his scoring ability, the 27-year-old believes his defensive contribution has improved significantly this season.

“I’m not the best defender in the NBA, but I think this year, I really took a step forward,” Doncic said after the game, adding that both he and his teammates recognise the progress he has made.

Lakers centre Walker Kessler was particularly impressed by the performance, praising Doncic for combining five steals with three charges drawn against Toronto. Kessler believes the guard does not receive enough recognition for his defensive work.

Head coach JJ Redick also highlighted the importance of Doncic’s willingness to take charges, describing the decision to put his body on the line as an example of leadership. Doncic drew two charges against RJ Barrett and another against Scottie Barnes during the contest.

Toronto coach Darko Rajakovic also acknowledged the Lakers star’s development, noting that he returned this season in excellent physical condition. Rajakovic added that a healthy and confident Doncic is extremely difficult to contain.

When informed of the praise from Kessler and Redick during his postgame media conference, Doncic responded with a smile, saying, “Finally.”

The guard admitted that taking charges had not previously been a major part of his defensive game during his six-and-a-half seasons with the Dallas Mavericks. However, he has made a conscious effort to embrace the tactic since joining the Lakers, believing it can energise his teammates.

Sandro Mamukelashvili, who contributed 11 points off the bench against his former team, also praised Doncic’s determination to improve defensively. He said the guard clearly takes pride in proving that opponents cannot simply target him on that end of the court.

Mamukelashvili added that Doncic’s offensive ability remains exceptional, explaining that teams often need several defenders to limit his influence. With another 45-point performance behind him, the Lakers star continues to demonstrate his impact at both ends of the floor.

Luka Doncic’s Defensive Masterclass Earns Praise After 45-Point Lakers Win

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