Lakers fans think Luka Doncic was called out by one of his teammates for whining too much

"This guy is a whiner."

The call from Charlotte Hornets broadcaster Eric Collins rang out loud and clear during Thursday night's game. As Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Doncic protested a foul call in the first half, Collins gave voice to what many NBA fans already think about Doncic.

The reinforcing of Doncic's "whiner" reputation was only one of the Lakers' problems on Thursday. Despite 39 points from Doncic and 29 from LeBron James, the Lakers defense was gashed again in a 135-117 home loss to the Hornets.

MORE: LaMelo Ball leads Hornets to No. 1 offense during recent scoring stretch

After the game, Lakers guard Marcus Smart appeared to take a thinly-veiled shot at Doncic that drew approval from some fans on social media.

"Instead of getting back (on defense), we're talking to the officials a lot," Smart said. "We gotta be able to play on and move on to the next play."

One fan on X wrote "people are hating on Marcus but he's right. Luka is their best player, but it's demoralizing for the team and a bad look, not to mention counter productive (to be) crying all the time."

"Glad someone's calling it out, Luka ain't above criticism," another said.

"Luka does it way too much," wrote another. "Smart is basically saying "hey lil buddy they aren't gonna change the call because you disagree."

In the heated race for playoff positioning in the Western Conference, a few bad games can be the difference between finishing second or finishing eighth.

Right now, the Lakers (24-15) are closer to the Play-in Tournament than they are to securing home court in a first-round playoff series.

To avoid tumbling further down the standings, it is vital for Doncic and James to take accountability and pay renewed attention on the defensive end.

More NBA news:

• LeBron James' ownership stake in Liverpool looks like a mind-blowingly good investment

• Hornets' Kon Knueppel gives his verdict on LaMelo Ball's future

• Lakers reportedly looking to trade Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent

• Warriors trade idea swaps Jonathan Kuminga for 25.7 PPG scorer in All-Star conversation