The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Indiana Pacers 128-117 on Friday night, powered by a stellar performance from Luka Dončić. The win improves the Lakers’ record to 38-25.

Dončić Dominates, James Sidelined

Dončić finished the game with 44 points, nine rebounds, five assists, three steals, and two blocks, connecting on seven three-pointers. The performance came as LeBron James sat out the game due to an elbow contusion sustained during Thursday night’s loss to the Denver Nuggets.

“It’s the same s—,” James said. “‘Marginal.’ It’s the same s—. … That’s all they keep saying is ‘marginal.’ I’m so f—ing tired of that word. It doesn’t develop no sense.”

LeBron James, following the loss to the Denver Nuggets

James injured his elbow in the fourth quarter while driving to the rim against Nikola Jokic. No foul was called on the play, and James was visibly frustrated with the officiating.

Dončić Nearing Suspension

Beyond James’ injury, another point of concern for the Lakers is Luka Dončić’s accumulating technical fouls. He was assessed his 15th technical foul of the season during Thursday’s game against the Nuggets. One more technical foul will result in a one-game suspension.

Other NBA Highlights

• Victor Wembanyama led the San Antonio Spurs to a comeback victory over the Los Angeles Clippers, scoring 27 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.
• Nikola Jokić scored 38 points for the Denver Nuggets, but the team fell to the New York Knicks 142-103.
• Alperen Şengün scored 28 points for the Houston Rockets in their 106-99 win over the Portland Trail Blazers.