Doncic’s scoring title underscored a historic regular season. He averaged 33.5 points per game, along with 7.7 rebounds, 8.3 assists and 1.6 steals, marking one of the strongest all-around seasons of his career even as he was snubbed for MVP consideration.
He had recently received relief under the league’s 65-game eligibility rule after traveling to Slovenia for the birth of his daughter, a move he publicly acknowledged by thanking the NBA and NBPA for their support. The league’s decision allowed him to remain eligible for postseason awards.
In the opener, the Lakers leaned on their depth without Doncic and Austin Reaves, who is also sidelined with a left oblique strain. LeBron James finished with 19 points, 13 assists and eight rebounds, while Luke Kennard erupted for a playoff-career-high 27 points on 5-for-5 shooting from three, and Deandre Ayton added 19 points and 11 rebounds.
Houston’s status was also watch-worthy, with Rockets star Kevin Durant missing Game 1 due to a right knee contusion, leaving the series in flux ahead of Game 2 in Los Angeles. The Lakers will look to build a 2-0 lead Tuesday at Crypto.com Arena before the series shifts back to Houston.
Overall, the Lakers’ immediate focus is health and winning game-to-game, even as Doncic’s MVP omission continues to be a hot topic. The team remains hopeful that Doncic and Reaves can rejoin the lineup later in the series if recovery progresses, allowing Los Angeles to capitalize on the series lead.
