Doncic's 41 points propel Lakers to victory over Bucks
The Lakers' Austin Reaves contributed 25 points and 8 assists, while Deandre Ayton added 20 points and 10 rebounds. The team wrapped up a five-game road trip, eagerly awaiting the return of superstar LeBron James, who is set to make his season debut soon.
Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 32 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, with 5 assists and a blocked shot. However, the Bucks struggled in the first half, making only 10 out of 41 shots.
The Lakers dominated, leading by as many as 31 points. They drilled 13 three-pointers and out-rebounded the Bucks 47-39. In the second half, Milwaukee improved its shooting, making 11 out of 15 three-pointers, but the Lakers consistently countered their runs.
Both teams were playing the second leg of back-to-backs, and Doncic expressed relief at the prospect of returning home after a week on the road. He praised the team's collective effort and energy.
LeBron James, sidelined by sciatica, practiced with the G League affiliate instead of traveling. He's expected to make his 23rd NBA season debut as soon as Tuesday when the Lakers host the Utah Jazz.
In Charlotte, NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 33 points in under 30 minutes, leading the Thunder to a fifth straight win. Forward Chet Holmgren added 25 points and 8 rebounds, improving the Thunder's league-best record to 13-1.
After a close first half, the Thunder pulled away with a 16-1 scoring run, leading by 20 points. Even with Gilgeous-Alexander resting in the fourth quarter, the Hornets couldn't close the gap to single digits.
In Cleveland, Donovan Mitchell scored 14 of his 30 points in the fourth quarter, leading the Cavaliers to a 108-100 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. The Cavs trailed for much of the game but outscored the Grizzlies 32-16 in the final quarter.
Evan Mobley contributed 22 points and 13 rebounds for the Cavaliers. Jaren Jackson Jr. led the Grizzlies with 26 points, but star point guard Ja Morant had just 7 points before exiting due to a sore right calf after playing less than 6 minutes.
© 2025 AFP
