The Los Angeles Lakers just can’t catch a break. After riding high on an eight-game winning streak, they’ve now lost three straight, with their latest setback coming in a 126-106 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday, March 13. Missing LeBron James, the Lakers struggled to keep up with the Bucks’ offense.
But if there was one silver lining, it was Luka Dončić, who put on an absolute show. The superstar guard dropped 45 points, grabbed 11 rebounds, and dished out three assists, making NBA history in the process.
Dončić Had A Record-Breaking Night
Dončić is no stranger to jaw-dropping performances, but this one was special. His 45-point, 10-rebound game made him the youngest Lakers player to achieve this feat since 1962. That’s a list that includes legends like LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Kobe Bryant, and even Austin Reaves.
Luka Doncic is the youngest Lakers player to have 45 PTS & 10 REB in a game since 1962 😳 pic.twitter.com/FHFVgWJlAG
— Real Sports (@realapp_) March 14, 2025
Against the Bucks, he was everywhere on the floor, shooting 14-of-27 from the field and 10-of-12 from the free-throw line. By halftime, he already had 29 points, keeping the Lakers in the fight. But even Dončić’s brilliance wasn’t enough against a Bucks squad that had five players scoring in double figures.
Giannis Antetokounmpo led Milwaukee with 24 points, 12 rebounds, and 9 assists. Additionally, Brook Lopez (23 points), Damian Lillard (22 points), and Kevin Porter Jr. (22 points) all chipped in to snatch victory from the Lakers.
Dončić’s Trade Already Paying Off For The Lakers?
When Dončić was traded to the Lakers, many wondered if it was the right move. Well, that question has been answered. Since joining LA, Dončić has been on fire, averaging 26.1 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 7.6 assists per game. If there were any doubts before, they’re long gone now.
Unfortunately, even with Dončić playing at an MVP level, the Lakers still have some issues to sort out. Injuries are piling up, with James missing his second straight game due to a groin strain. Jaxson Hayes and Rui Hachimura were also sidelined, leaving the Lakers shorthanded.
Adding to their frustrations, the Lakers have been dealing with officiating inconsistencies in multiple games now, with Dončić visibly frustrated in the matchup against the Brooklyn Nets. While Redick isn’t making it the main talking point, he seems to be concerned. He called out bad officiating for Dončić saying, “I think he gets a tough whistle. That’s a fact.”
When talking about Luka Doncic, JJ Redick stated:
"I think he gets a tough whistle. That's a fact."
— Lakers Nation (@LakersNation) March 14, 2025
Now, with three straight losses, the Lakers need to regroup fast. They have slipped to fourth place in the Western Conference with a 40-24 record. Next, they face the Denver Nuggets, hoping to avoid slipping further in the standings. But one thing is clear – Dončić is proving to be the future of this franchise, one who has the potential to lead the Lakers once King James decides to hang his boots.