Luka Doncic avoids suspension and looks to keep the momemtum rolling in Detroit

Los Angeles has now won nine straight games to move to 46–25 and into the top three in the Western Conference. Doncic has been central to that run, both in production and controlling games down the stretch.

In Orlando on March 21, he finished with 33 points and eight assists in a one-point win. It was a performance built on timing rather than volume, with the Lakers leaning on him in key possessions down the stretch.

NBA decision keeps Lakers’ momentum intact

Had the technical foul stood, Doncic would have served a one-game suspension.

Instead, the Lakers keep their primary playmaker during a stretch where every result is shaping playoff positioning.

That matters given how quickly their season has shifted. The current run has taken them from chasing consistency to looking like a team with a defined identity heading into the postseason.

Recent form underlines Doncic’s influence

Doncic’s last five games underline the level he is playing at.

He is averaging close to 40 points per game across that stretch, including 40 points and 10 assists in Houston and a triple-double against Denver. The Orlando performance added another example of his ability to manage games in tight situations.

His 60-point game earlier in the week remains the standout moment, but it now sits within a wider run of high-level performances rather than defining it.

After the win in Houston, Doncic pointed to the team’s chemistry.

“It’s an amazing feel, honestly. I love winning. Everything is better when you’re winning,” he said. “We have great chemistry, we have a great team. This is just the start of something beautiful.”

MVP discussion growing around Doncic

This stretch has pushed Doncic firmly into the MVP conversation.

Stephen A. Smith recently admitted he felt “ashamed” for not placing him higher in the race earlier, while Lakers head coach JJ Redick described one of his recent outings as a “superhero performance.”

There is still some criticism around elements of his game, particularly his interactions with officials, but it has done little to shift the wider conversation around his impact.

Lakers building at the right time

For the Lakers, the key point is availability and continuity.

The winning streak has already lifted them into a strong position in the Western Conference. Keeping Doncic on the floor gives them a chance to extend that run and strengthen their position before the playoffs.

Right now, results are following his form.

And with the NBA’s decision removing the risk of interruption, the Lakers have the chance to keep building on it.