Luka Doncic Drops 44 Points in 3 Quarters
Luka Doncic put on a show for the Lakers, erupting for 44 points in just three quarters to lead a 128-117 win over the Pacers. With LeBron James sidelined, Doncic dominated by draining seven three-pointers, shooting 14-for-25, and grabbing nine rebounds before sitting out the entire fourth quarter. The performance highlighted a growing chemistry with Jaxson Hayes, fueling optimism for a deep playoff [run [2]](https://www.ocregister.com/2026/03/07/lakers-thriving-as-luka-doncic-and-jaxson-hayes-connect/).
This offensive outburst came as the Lakers played the second night of a back-to-back, following a 120-113 loss to the Denver Nuggets. That loss snapped a three-game winning streak for Los Angeles. LeBron James was sidelined with a left elbow contusion sustained in the game against Denver. He is considered day-to-day and the team is hopeful he will be available for their next game against the New York Knicks. The Lakers are 11-7 in games James has missed this season. The victory improved the Lakers' season record to 38-25, placing them 6th in the Western Conference standings. The team is currently leading the Pacific Division. Doncic is averaging 32.4 points, 8.6 assists, and 7.7 rebounds per game this season. His scoring average leads the NBA. Center Jaxson Hayes, noted for his growing chemistry with Doncic, is averaging 6.7 points and 4.0 rebounds per game in the 2025-26 season. He is shooting an efficient 77% from the field. The Lakers were also without center Deandre Ayton, who is day-to-day with left knee soreness, and forward Maxi Kleber due to back soreness.
