Luka Doncic breaks Kobe Bryant monthly scoring record for LA Lakers
Luka Doncic broke Kobe Bryant’s 20-year franchise record for the most points scored in a calendar month as the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 127-113.
The Slovenian superstar poured in 42 points upon returning from a one-game suspension to reach a staggering 579 points for March.
That impressive tally eclipsed the previous benchmark of 578 set by the late Hall of Famer back in 2006.
“If you don’t win, it doesn’t really mean anything. So the run that we’ve been on, it really means a lot. We’ve got to keep playing like that.”
James sets all-time wins milestone
While the prolific guard captured the headlines, his legendary team-mate also etched his name into the history books.
LeBron James contributed 14 points during the victory to secure his 1,229th career win across regular season and post-season fixtures.
The four-time NBA champion surpassed legendary centre Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the most combined victories in league history.
“He’s great on both sides of the ball, he’s just doing a little bit of everything at a super-high level for us.”
Lakers head coach JJ Redick praised the veteran forward for his consistent leadership, noting his crucial role in empowering the entire roster.
Post-season position secured
The commanding result capped a phenomenal stretch for the California franchise, marking their 15th victory in 17 outings.
Prior to tip-off against Cleveland, the squad had already clinched a guaranteed post-season berth and the Pacific Division title.
Their qualification was mathematically confirmed when the Phoenix Suns suffered a narrow 115-111 defeat against the Orlando Magic.
The historic night further solidified an incredible month for the 25-year-old playmaker, who recently became the first player since Bryant to drop 60 points in a single game for the franchise.
Sitting third in the highly competitive Western Conference, the revitalised roster now looks primed for a deep championship run.