The Los Angeles Lakers secured a 110-102 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday night despite Luka Dončić sitting out. With Dončić still recovering from a calf injury, LeBron James and Austin Reaves took over to ensure the win. James, who had been listed as questionable due to foot injury management, delivered a dominant performance but also tied a career-high in turnovers. The Lakers remain optimistic about Dončić’s progress and his full integration into the team.
LeBron Puts Up Big Numbers Despite Turnovers
James didn’t just play; he dominated. The 39-year-old superstar dropped 40 points, grabbed eight rebounds, dished four assists, and blocked two shots. However, he also committed 11 turnovers, tying a career high. Reaves contributed significantly as well, scoring 32 points with seven assists, though he also had six turnovers.
The Lakers have been managing James’ minutes carefully, especially after he skipped the NBA All-Star Game due to foot and ankle discomfort. Despite that, he has played in six of the team’s last seven games in February, only sitting out against the Indiana Pacers. With his leadership on full display, the Lakers held off a determined Trail Blazers squad.
Dončić’s Recovery and Reintegration Into the Team
Dončić is making steady progress. The Lakers are optimistic about his recovery, and head coach JJ Redick has confirmed that he is no longer on a minutes restriction. The All-Star break provided extra time for his calf to heal, and the expectation is that he will soon be ready to play in back-to-back games.
His most recent outing against the Charlotte Hornets was a struggle. Dončić managed 14 points on 5-of-18 shooting, including a poor 1-for-9 performance from beyond the arc. He added 11 rebounds, eight assists, and six turnovers in the 100-97 loss. Adjusting to a new team midseason is never easy, and both he and his teammates acknowledge that the transition will take time.
Lakers’ Injury Woes Continue
The Lakers have been dealing with multiple injuries. Forward Jarred Vanderbilt and center Maxi Kleber remain out due to right foot injuries. Their absence, along with Dončić’s temporary limitations, has forced the team to make strategic adjustments.
Despite these setbacks, the Lakers have remained competitive. After a rough patch before the All-Star break, they had won six straight games and 12 of their last 14 before dropping two in a row. The win over Portland helps them regain momentum as they push toward the playoffs.
Dončić’s Performance Since the Blockbuster Trade
Since joining the Lakers from the Dallas Mavericks, Dončić has played three games, averaging:
- 14.7 points per game
- 6.7 rebounds per game
- 5.3 assists per game
- 36% field goal shooting (21% from three-point range)
- Nearly 27 minutes per game
These numbers are below his usual All-Star level, but given his injury and transition period, they are expected to improve. For the season, Dončić has been putting up 26.5 points, 8.1 rebounds, 7.5 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, while shooting 34% from deep in 25 total games.
Fast-Tracking Chemistry With LeBron and the Team
Adjusting to the Lakers’ system is a work in progress for Dončić. James acknowledged that the Slovenian star is still learning the team’s plays, defensive schemes, and overall structure.
“He still doesn’t know all the plays. He doesn’t know all the defensive coverages, all the signals and things that we’ve built up since September,” James admitted. “Obviously, we’re trying to fast-track it on the fly. He’s coming back from his injury. He’s getting back into form, so we’re working through it together.”
With no minutes restriction going forward, the expectation is that Dončić will find his rhythm soon. His ability to mesh with James and Reaves will be crucial for the Lakers’ success down the stretch.
