Luka Doncic breaks Jerry West’s Lakers record in historic start

The summer grind is paying off on the court. Luka Doncic has started this NBA season at a relentless pace, showcasing a blend of speed, agility, and versatility that makes him nearly unstoppable. His natural scoring, passing, and court vision, combined with an uncanny ability to exploit opponents’ weaknesses, have turned him into the Lakers’ ultimate weapon.

Miami Heat felt that power firsthand early Saturday night. Doncic led Los Angeles to a 130-120 victory over the Heat with his first triple-double of the season: 29 points (16 in the first half), 11 rebounds, and 10 assists. It’s the 83rd triple-double of his career and the third wearing a Lakers jersey.

Doncic sets a new Lakers scoring record

Doncic has totaled 165 points over the Lakers’ first four games, a franchise record. The previous mark was held by Jerry West, who scored 154 points during the 1969-70 season. Historically, only Wilt Chamberlain scored more, with 213 points in the 1962-63 season, according to the NBA.

Stats underline Austin Reaves’ strong start to the season

Kobe Bryant ranks third with 146 points in the first four games of the 2005-06 season. Austin Reaves has moved up to fourth with 143 points, following a 26-point performance against Miami that also included 4 rebounds and 11 assists. Reaves has yet to score fewer than 20 points in any game this season and has already recorded three double-digit assist games. Joining them was Jake LaRavia, who added 25 points in a standout showing.

Lakers keep control despite Heat rally

The trio made it clear that the win would stay in Los Angeles. This marks the Lakers’ third straight victory and their fifth of the season, improving their record to 5-2. Miami was already trailing 43-36 after the first quarter and fell behind by as many as 18 points (68-50) midway through the second following a Reaves three-pointer. The Heat managed to narrow the gap slightly by halftime, trailing 77-63.

A sluggish defensive effort from the Lakers after the break allowed Miami, led by California native Jaime Jaquez Jr.’s 31 points, to get within five (102-98). But Los Angeles held steady, controlling the final three minutes of the game to secure the win.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.