Luka Doncic made a spectacular return from a three-game injury absence, scoring 44 points to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 117-112 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies in their NBA Cup opener on Friday night. His dominant performance, which included 12 rebounds and six assists, helped the Lakers erase a 14-point halftime deficit and secure a crucial road win.
Doncic, who had been sidelined with a left finger sprain and lower left leg contusion, rejoined the lineup and immediately took control of the game. He shot 14-of-27 from the field, including 6-of-15 from three-point range, and made 10-of-13 free throws, showcasing his scoring versatility. This marked his third consecutive 40-point game to start the season, making him only the second player in NBA history, alongside Wilt Chamberlain, to achieve such a feat. His effortless style and round-the-clock treatment allowed a faster-than-expected recovery, highlighting his dedication and impact.
The Lakers struggled early, trailing 69-55 at halftime after the Grizzlies unleashed a 27-4 run in the second quarter. However, Doncic ignited a comeback in the third period, scoring 16 points as the Lakers quickly erased the deficit. His leadership on both ends of the floor, combined with clutch shooting and playmaking, shifted the momentum entirely in Los Angeles’ favor during a tightly contested second half. The game featured 14 lead changes and seven ties, underscoring the back-and-forth intensity until the final minutes.
Austin Reaves provided crucial support with 21 points, continuing his strong play in Doncic’s absence, while Marcus Smart added 12 points in his return from a quad injury. The Lakers’ depth was tested when Deandre Ayton exited at halftime with back spasms, but the team rallied around Doncic’s heroics. His ability to draw double teams and create open looks for teammates proved invaluable down the stretch, as he made crafty passes and finishes that drew awe from the Memphis crowd.
Memphis put up a resilient fight, with Jock Landale and Jaylen Wells each scoring 16 points, and Jaren Jackson Jr. adding 15. However, the Grizzlies’ star guard Ja Morant was held to just eight points on 3-of-14 shooting, struggling against the Lakers’ defensive adjustments. Despite a 19-point rally in the second half, Memphis could not contain Doncic’s offensive onslaught, which included step-back threes and agile moves around defenders.
Doncic’s historic start to the season has been a bright spot for the Lakers, who improved to 4-2 and are navigating the early stages without LeBron James, who is dealing with a right sciatica issue. Averaging 45.4 points, 11.7 rebounds, and 7.7 assists through three games, his MVP-caliber form underscores his importance to the team’s championship aspirations. Teammates and coaches praised his ‘fantasticness’ and the seamless integration back into the lineup.
The victory also marked a strong opening to the NBA Cup group play, setting a positive tone for the Lakers as they continue to integrate returning players. With Doncic back, the team demonstrated its potential to compete at a high level, balancing offensive firepower with defensive resilience in a challenging road environment. Coach JJ Redick emphasized the halftime adjustments that transformed the team’s energy and execution.
Looking ahead, the Lakers will host the Miami Heat on Sunday, aiming to build on this momentum, while the Grizzlies travel to face the Toronto Raptors. Doncic’s health and performance will be key factors as Los Angeles navigates a packed schedule and strives for consistency in the Western Conference standings, with hopes of maintaining their early success in the postseason hunt.