JJ Redick praised Luka Doncic for his competitive fire, saying he would rather have a player who plays with intense emotion every night than someone who needs constant motivation.
Luka Doncic recorded 44 points, nine rebounds, and three steals in just three quarters to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 128-117 win over the visiting Indiana Pacers on Friday night.
Doncic was less emotional during this game, though the Slovenian star is approaching the technical foul limit that could result in a suspension.
Still, head coach JJ Redick said he appreciates Luka's competitive fire, even when it comes to interactions with officials.
"I would much rather have someone who is trying to go out every night and kill than someone you have to revive with a defibrillator every other day," Redick said in Luka's defense.
Doncic knocked down seven three-pointers vs. Indiana and recorded his 10th 40-point performance of the season, breaking a tie with Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves for the most in the league this year.
Credit AFP-Scanpix
He also became the fourth different Laker to record at least 10 games with 40 or more points in a single season, joining Hall of Famers Kobe Bryant (four times), Elgin Baylor (three), and Jerry West (three).
Doncic said his emotions are part of what drives him.
"It shows that I really care for the game," he stated. "I want to win every game. Obviously, there's a lot of emotions, but that means a lot of care for the game. This game has given me everything, so that's why sometimes it's a lot."
The Lakers improved to 38-25 on the season and currently sit sixth in the Western Conference.
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