Lakers and Doncic Face Crucial Tests Ahead

It seems unlikely that the Lakers will clinch a championship this season.

As for Luka Doncic, MVP honors appear out of reach.

Despite their recent 9-game winning streak, the Lakers have only proven they’re likely to advance past the first round of the playoffs.

And Doncic’s impressive rise as the second-leading scorer in NBA history, right behind Michael Jordan, is somewhat overshadowed by his falling standing in the MVP race, a point he recently expressed frustration about.

However, both the Lakers and Doncic have opportunities to shift perceptions. Upcoming matches against the Thunder over the next week could be pivotal.

Should the Lakers triumph over the reigning NBA champions, their reputation would soar. Simultaneously, if Doncic outshines current MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, he might just grab that award.

Recently, the Lakers crushed the Cavaliers by a margin of 27 points, marking their 16th win in 18 games, which included victories over top teams like the Rockets, Nuggets, Knicks, and Timberwolves.

Despite this success, doubts linger about their legitimacy.

Sure, they’re showing promise, but is it enough to overcome challenges posed by teams like the Thunder and Spurs?

That’s a fair perspective, considering their last encounter with the Thunder in January, where their defense was seriously tested. It was a struggle—Austin Reeves looked utterly spent, and LeBron James was practically hoarse. Not to mention Doncic didn’t even play that game, which made the loss even tougher to swallow.

But the current Lakers team has transformed significantly since then.

With Doncic, Reeves, and James now a formidable trio, the role players have stepped up in crucial ways. Their resurgence began in late February.

What’s led to this improvement?

Lakers coach JJ Redick mentioned a mix of factors, primarily health. Prior to the All-Star break, the big three had only played together in 11 games. “It’s much easier to find your rhythm when everyone’s available,” he noted.

James even adjusted his role to become the team’s third option after a three-game absence earlier in March, helping the team flourish alongside Doncic and Reeves. The latter has grown bolder on the court, and Doncic? Well, he’s been playing exceptionally well.

Still, I think there’s a lingering skepticism about the Lakers’ legitimacy.

And the same goes for Doncic, who’s frustrated by the ever-shifting criteria for the MVP award. So, is he merely an offensive star, leading in scoring (33.8 points), ranking third in assists (8.3), and sixth in steals (1.7), but lacking defensively?

It’s curious how past winners like James Harden and Stephen Curry didn’t face such scrutiny, yet now with two-way stars like Gilgeous-Alexander and Victor Wembanyama in the mix, things appear different.

Doncic recently racked up 40 or more points in three consecutive games, which has helped elevate his team to third in the Western Conference, highlighted by standout performances of 60 and 51 points.

Wembanyama has openly made his case for the MVP, while Gilgeous-Alexander prefers to let his gameplay speak for him.

When Doncic was asked if he wanted to defend his candidacy, he seemed to recognize the futility in that. His reaction suggested he’s tired of the conversation surrounding MVP momentum.

“I mean, I’ve never had that,” Doncic remarked. “I’m not a voter, but I think we’ve been playing well, winning—that’s all I have to say.”

Now, Doncic has the chance to change some opinions.

Facing the top MVP contender twice next week is a golden opportunity. If he outshines him, it might speak louder than any argument could.

The Lakers are on the rise. Doncic is showing up.

Yet, even with all the attention from the league and national broadcasts, they still feel somewhat overlooked.

All that could change based on their performances against the Thunder.