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The Los Angeles Lakers are doing everything they can to remain within the top six seeds in the Western Conference and avoid the Play-In Tournament. The Lakers are led by Luka Doncic, who was acquired over a year ago, and he wants Los Angeles to build around him quickly so he can compete for another championship.
“Dončić being just 26 gives the Lakers a far longer timeline to build a championship-contending team, but that doesn't mean they can slow down and take their time. Dončić told Lakers president Rob Pelinka and coach JJ Redick in May that he's not interested in taking the slow approach in building a contender,” CBS Sports’ Jasmyn Wimbish wrote.
However, one ongoing issue for Doncic has been his constant arguing with officials. At times, he gets so caught up in the conversations that he loses focus on the game itself. A New Orleans Pelicans reporter criticized him Tuesday night.
“This is the frustrating part about Luka. You lead the NBA in free throw attempts, so you complain when they call it, you complain when they don't call it. It comes to a point where you just gotta play,” the reporter said.
Doncic was assessed a technical foul on Tuesday, marking his 14th of the season. If he receives two more, he will be suspended for one game and fined.
“Luka Doncic's technical foul tonight is his 14th of the season. Two more and he'll be suspended a game. Something to monitor as the Lakers fight for playoff seeding with 21 games left after tonight,” Lakers reporter Dave McMenamin wrote.
The concern for the Lakers is clear. If Doncic picks up his 16th technical during a crucial stretch of the season, it could be detrimental to the team’s playoff positioning.
The Lakers are by no means comfortably locked into the postseason, meaning Doncic could miss a game when it matters most. Down the stretch, he will need to manage his emotions and stay composed for the sake of the team.
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