Luka Doncic spoke after the Los Angeles Lakers fell 112-100 to the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Sunday.
“They got the crowd going, but like you say I think we missed some great looks and they made some great look so especially in that third quarter,” Doncic said, highlighting the pivotal stretch of the game.
On LeBron James’ 22nd consecutive All-Star selection, he added, “Of course he deserved it. He’s playing at the top level still at that age, which is incredible to share the floor with. So you know congratulations to him and he obviously deserved it.”
Reflecting on his relationship with Jalen Brunson, Doncic noted, “It will always be my guy. You know we came into the league together same team. But he deserves this. He deserves to be in this spot, and he’s doing amazing.”
The Mavericks star evaluated the Lakers’ roster and performance, saying, “I think we’re in a good spot. You know obviously have some work to do. But I think you know today we all seem is a lot of great looks but I didn’t we have a great group.”
On playing at Madison Square Garden, he remarked, “I mean just you know it’s obviously one of the most famous arenas so probably because that I like.”
Regarding teammate Austin Reaves’ limited availability, Doncic said, “100% comfortable. It’s definitely hard with a calf. You know I’ve been through that you know. It’s not an easy injury so we just want him to be healthy you know. If he’s ready, come back, if not, don’t comeback. But obviously I would love have him out there. We can wait for his return.”
Doncic led the Lakers with 30 points, 15 rebounds, and eight assists, while LeBron James contributed 22 points, six assists, and five rebounds in his 32nd regular-season game at MSG.
The Knicks, fueled by OG Anunoby’s 25 points and Landry Shamet’s 23 off the bench, improved to 31-18, securing their sixth consecutive win and holding second place in the Eastern Conference. New York outscored Los Angeles 38-26 in the third quarter, turning a tight contest into a double-digit lead.
Los Angeles fell to 29-19 and remains sixth in the Western Conference. The Lakers shot 45 percent overall but hit just 12 of 42 three-point attempts, struggling to match New York’s 47-percent shooting from the field and 43-percent mark from beyond the arc.
