The Los Angeles Lakers sit as the second-best team in the loaded Western Conference through their first nine games of the season.
The Lakers moved to 7-2 on Wednesday after an impressive win over one of the league’s better up-and-coming teams, the San Antonio Spurs.
Los Angeles won a nail-biter, 118-116, over the Spurs. They not only earned their seventh win and have now won five games in a row, but their superstar guard, Luka Doncic, made history in the process.
The Lakers announced that Doncic has the third-most points through the first five games played in NBA history.
Doncic sits with 200 points through his first five games, surpassing NBA legend and Hall of Famer Michael Jordan, who was previously third on that list with 197 points to start the 1988-87 season.
NBA and Lakers legend Wilt Chamberlain holds the first two spots in that list, recording 256 points in 1961 and 264 points in 1962.
Although the five-time All-Star had a poor shooting night, going 9-of-27 from the field for 33 percent, he was stellar when it mattered most.
More news: Heat Emerge as Possible Landing Spot for Disgruntled $197M All-Star Guard
Doncic still led all scorers with 35 points, a game-high 13 assists and five steals in the win. The 26-year-old superstar did it all for the Lakers on Wednesday, especially when things mattered most.
After the game, Doncic discussed the joy he is having playing right now.
“I’m enjoying it very much playing with these guys. AR can’t play, we’re still missing Bron, so this team has big potential. Everybody who steps on the court gives their maximum and so it is very enjoyable to play,” Doncic said.
The Lakers are on a tear, and a big part of it is Doncic’s play.
In five games, the Slovenian superstar is averaging 40.0 points per game, 11.0 rebounds, 9.2 assists and 2.0 steals while shooting 50 percent from the field and 30.5 percent from three in 39 minutes of action.
With or without Lebron James on the court, it is the Doncic show and rightfully so.
For all the latest NBA news and rumors, head over toNewsweek Sports.
2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.