"Too Slow": Luka Doncic Faces Surprising Criticism from Lakers Legend Despite Stellar Win Over Spurs
Despite the Lakers' narrow 118–116 win over the Spurs, Luka Doncic drew unexpected criticism from former Lakers star Robert Horry. The comments came after Doncic's statistically impressive night that also exposed a few offensive struggles.
Challenging Third Quarter
Doncic took 27 shots, converting only nine, including four three-pointers. His struggles peaked in the third quarter, when he went just 1-for-9 from the field. The Lakers were outscored 37–28 during that stretch as the Spurs surged to a 12-point advantage.
Although Doncic stayed on the court nearly the entire quarter, running the offense alone, teammate Rui Hachimura—who had made four of five earlier shots—didn’t attempt a single one in that frame.
Fourth Quarter Redemption
In the final quarter, Doncic adjusted his approach by distributing the ball more frequently. Hachimura attempted four shots, including a clutch three-pointer assisted by Doncic with just over five minutes remaining, narrowing the deficit to two points.
Doncic later sank a decisive shot with 2:31 left, pushing the Lakers ahead 113–112—a lead they maintained until the final buzzer.
Defensive Brilliance
While Doncic’s offensive game was inconsistent, his defensive presence was exceptional. In a matchup against the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, Victor Wembanyama, Doncic recorded five steals and two blocks, earning wide praise across the league.
“He didn’t shoot well, but he was everywhere on defense,” one analyst observed after the game.
Author’s Summary
Despite shooting woes, Luka Doncic’s defensive intensity and late-game leadership secured a crucial victory for the Lakers and silenced much of the doubt surrounding his performance.