Los Angeles Lakers star guard Luka Dončić has wasted no time demonstrating why he remains one of the NBA’s most explosive offensive players. After posting 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists in a narrow opening-night loss to the Golden State Warriors, Dončić continued his scoring barrage Friday night against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
In the first quarter, Dončić tied a franchise record for the most points scored in a single quarter in Lakers history. He poured in 23 points on 8-for-12 shooting, including 4-for-7 from beyond the arc. Had he not missed two free throws, he would have set a new all-time mark outright. Instead, he joins Kyle Kuzma, Lou Williams and Kobe Bryant as the only Lakers players to reach 23 points in one quarter.
Los Angeles entered the matchup shorthanded, playing without LeBron James and center Jaxson Hayes. Even so, the Lakers remained competitive behind Dončić’s hot start. Minnesota guard Anthony Edwards matched the energy early, scoring 14 points, while Donte DiVincenzo added 11 points on 3-for-5 shooting from 3-point range.
Head coach JJ Redick also elected to adjust his rotation from Tuesday’s opener. Rookie guard Dalton Knecht, who did not see the floor in the first game, has already came off the bench. Redick will continue to look for contributions from the second unit, including forwards Jared Vanderbilt and Jake LaRavia, as well as veteran guard Marcus Smart.
For Los Angeles to avoid an 0-2 start, secondary scoring and defensive effort will be crucial in the second half. At the half, Los Angeles leads by five.
Following tonight’s contest, the Lakers will travel for the first time this season, heading north to face the Sacramento Kings on Sunday night. With a demanding schedule ahead, Los Angeles hopes to secure its first win before hitting the road.
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