Dallas Mavericks superstar Luka Doncic is on an incredible hot streak right now. It appeared as if he was having an off night against the Clippers on Tuesday before number 77 exploded in the second half to finish with a 40-point double-double. Doncic became just the fourth player in NBA history to average over 40 points, ten rebounds, and five assists over a nine-game span. He has been unstoppable, and fans know he always has a little extra when facing his childhood idol LeBron James.
The Mavericks visit Crypto.com arena on Jan. 12 for a matchup against King James and the Los Angeles Lakers. Doncic went for 32 points, nine rebounds, and nine assists in the Christmas Day win over the Lakers as LeBron dropped 38. They put on a show and had plenty of love for each other after the contest. Fans should expect something similar on Thursday night, and supporters can watch at 9:00 p.m. CT on TNT.
James will be chasing history as Doncic attempts to continue his hot streak. Here is a look at why fans should expect fireworks from both players, and how that will help determine the outcome.
Luka Doncic promises fireworks as LeBron James chases history in Dallas Mavericks at Lakers
LeBron is just 35 points away from being the second player in NBA history to score 38,000 career points, and he will be eager to get it on Thursday night on their home floor against one of his favorite players. James is listed as probable for the contest after missing the Lakers' last game. He dropped 37 against the Kings the last time he played, so expect King James to be eager to face Luka Doncic.
The Mavericks have lost two straight, and Luka has no plans of letting it get to three. Dallas has won five of the last six meetings against the Lakers, and number 77 missed the lone loss. He has scored over 30 in three of those five contests, including 32 in the last meeting that was sandwiched between a 50-point and a 60-point performance from LD. Doncic goes off against LeBron and the Lakers, and fans should expect nothing less on Thursday night.
The Mavericks need Luka to be otherworldly to win right now. They are down three key rotation pieces, and their defense has been subpar. Dallas needs Doncic to go off to have a chance. The Lakers have nobody that can stop him one-on-one, so expect LA to throw plenty of different looks his way. Luka solving them is the key to the contest.
The Lakers have won five of their last six games as they look to get back into the playoff picture. Dallas wants to stay in the top four, and they need a win to get back on track. Expect fireworks from Luka Doncic and LeBron James on Thursday night as the King looks to make history. Fans won’t want to miss one second of this one, so please tune in and enjoy the game.