Luka Doncic Tips His Hat to LeBron James for Playing Back-to-Backs at 41

Luka Doncic was in awe of LeBron James' commitment to play in back-to-backs.

Luka Doncic Tips His Hat to LeBron James for Playing Back-to-Backs at 41

LeBron James and Luka Doncic (Image via FirstSportz)

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The Los Angeles Lakers, led by Luka Doncic and LeBron James, were coming off a minor blip after suffering a shocking loss to the 14th-place Sacramento Kings on the first night of a back-to-back. But they bounced back in convincing fashion on their second night as they recorded a 141-116 blowout of the Atlanta Hawks at the Crypto.com Arena on Tuesday night.

With the win, the Lakers snapped their three-game losing streak for the second time this season. The win propelled them to fifth place in the Western Conference standings with a 24-14 record, while the Hawks remained at ninth in the Eastern Conference standings with a 20-22 record.

All five starters for the Lakers recorded double-digit points. Both LeBron James and Luka Doncic recorded double-doubles and combined to score 58 points. James led the scorers with 31 points to go along with nine rebounds and 10 assists, narrowly missing his first triple-double of the season. Meanwhile, Doncic finished the game with 27 points, five rebounds, and 12 assists.

Both Lakers stars were doubtful heading into Tuesday’s clash. Doncic was carrying a niggle, while James’ status will be TBD for every back-to-back this season, considering his age. However, James appears to have regained his top condition and has been unstoppable since turning 41. The four-time champion is currently averaging 22.4 points, 5.7 rebounds and 6.9 assists, but is averaging 26.1 points since turning 41.

Following the win, Doncic praised his teammate for his commitment to the game.

He’s one of a kind. 23rd season to play back-to-back, it costs everybody but for him it’s probably even more difficult but he shows how much he cares so that’s big time. It shows to the whole group how much it means to him.

It is remarkable that James, 41, is able to play in back-to-backs, let alone putting in such dominant performances. His recent form is also a sign that he is starting to find his form halfway into the campaign. Nevertheless, the Lakers will be careful with how they manage James’ load as the season progresses.

JJ Redick talks about LeBron James’ work ethic

It was an important game for the Lakers, who were on a three-match losing streak. Hence, James’ availability mattered even though it would be understandable if he decided to skip it. After clocking 33 minutes on Monday, James clocked nearly 33 minutes again in his first back-to-back of the 2025-26 campaign.

Speaking to the reporters in his post-match press conference, Lakers head coach JJ Redick had nothing but praise for the 41-year-old star.

He got hit in the quad in the fourth quarter and he’s already in the ice bath. He’s going to do everything he possibly can to play in his 23rd year. He just said, ‘I’m going to, I’m going to try. I’m going to try to do everything I can do my normal routine, if I’m able to go.’ I don’t take for granted the LeBron stuff. It’s actually unfortunate how much this guy puts into it and how much he cares.

Redick was unhappy with James’ critics who doubted whether James could contribute much to the Lakers at his current age. But the four-time champion has always shown that his dedication and passion for the game are second to none.

LeBron James on setting an example for his son

James may have achieved everything there is to achieve in the sport, but his drive remains strong. Recognizing that the Lakers were going through a rough patch, James decided to suit up to help his team and prevent a fourth consecutive defeat for the first time this season. With Austin Reaves still ruled out, James’ availability mattered to the Lakers.

After the Hawks game, James explained his mindset and set an example for his son, Bronny James.

Bronny James and LeBron James
Bronny James (Left) and LeBron James (Right) (Image credits – BBC)

I would never disrespect the basketball gods. So I put the time and the effort and the commitment in it mentally, physically, spiritually. My son is right over there. So, I can’t afford to cheat the game ever. And I wouldn’t ever do that. And I got to set an example for him over there, too.

It is incredible what James is able to do at his age. The 2025-26 campaign represents James’ 23rd season in the NBA. A number no player has reached in NBA history. But the Lakers star continues to defy Father Time.

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