Luka Doncic
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Luka Doncic leads the NBA in scoring
The Los Angeles Lakers are taking the proper steps to make sure that Luka Doncic doesn’t have to serve a one-game suspension next week.
During the March 21 matchup between the Lakers and the Orlando Magic, the Lakers’ superstar picked up a technical foul. That marked the 16th of the year for Doncic, which is grounds for a suspension.
Doncic was whistled after engaging in a verbal exchange with Orlando center Goga Bitadze. Both players told their sides of the story on Saturday night, making different claims.
Doncic’s version went viral, leading many NBA fans to defend the idea that he shouldn’t have to miss a game over the tech.
Luka Doncic Explains The Situation
Luka Doncic, Lakers
GettyMIAMI, FLORIDA – MARCH 19: Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts after scoring a three-pointer against the Miami Heat during the third quarter at Kaseya Center on March 19, 2026 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images)
via ESPN: “I’m definitely hoping [it is rescinded],” Doncic said after the game. “Obviously, I let my team down getting that last tech. But honestly, I wasn’t trying to. [Bitadze] said at the free throw, he would f— my whole family. And at some point, this is a basketball court. At some point, I just can’t stand it. I got to stand up for myself.
According to Dave McMenamin of ESPN, the Lakers have already officially appealed to the NBA to rescind the call. If it’s successful, Doncic won’t have to worry about missing any time.
If it isn’t, Doncic will be forced to serve his suspension right away. He would miss the Lakers’ Monday, March 23, matchup against the Detroit Pistons.
The Luka Hot Streak Continues–Despite The Drama
GettyHOUSTON, TEXAS – MARCH 18: Austin Reaves #15 of the Los Angeles Lakers celebrates with Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the second half against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on March 18, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Alex Slitz/Getty Images)
In the matchup against the Magic, the Lakers rolled out Doncic for 38 minutes.
The Slovenian star appeared on the court for 38 minutes. He shot 12-30 from the field and 3-13 from three. Doncic finished the game with 33 points, eight assists, five rebounds, four steals, and one block.
The Lakers got a strong outing from the veteran, Austin Reaves. In 40 minutes of action, Reaves went 10-20 from the field, producing 26 points. He also came down with seven rebounds, while dishing out five assists, coming up with two steals, and blocking one shot.
Doncic and the Lakers defeated the Magic 105-104.
Where The Lakers Stand
Luka Doncic, Lakers
GettyLuka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers in action during the first quarter of the game against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on March 18, 2026 in Houston, Texas.
Saturday’s win was the ninth in a row for the Lakers. They’ve now won nine out of their last 10 games.
With a 46-25 record, the Lakers are third in the Western Conference. They hold a 2.5-game lead over the Houston Rockets, whom they defeated twice earlier in the week.
The Lakers will get a chance to improve on Monday against the Pistons. The decision on Doncic should be made soon.