WATCH: Bleeding Luka Doncic confronts referee after taking elbow from Anthony Davis in intense game

Luka Doncic led Mavericks to victory over the Los Angeles Lakers.

WATCH: Bleeding Luka Doncic confronts referee after taking elbow from Anthony Davis in intense game

In a thrilling 127-125 encounter at the American Airlines Center, Luka Doncic, leading the Dallas Mavericks, welcomed the newly crowned NBA Cup champions, the Los Angeles Lakers. The Mavericks emerged victorious, with Doncic top-scoring, contributing 33 points, 17 assists, and six rebounds.

In an intense encounter, the Mavs recorded a field goal percentage of 49.4% (44/89), while the Lakers achieved 53.8% (49/91). Notably, the Mavericks excelled in three-point shooting at 48.8% (21/43), whereas the Lakers posted a three-point percentage of 51.7% (15/29).

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During the game, a significant moment unfolded as Anthony Davis‘ elbow accidentally struck Doncic on the jaw, leading to a bloodied lip. Expressing displeasure with the referee’s decision not to call a foul, Doncic approached the official, wiping the blood from his mouth as he conveyed his thoughts.

FS Video

It’s customary for players to encounter elbows, particularly in rebound contests. Thankfully, this incident wasn’t excessively violent or perilous for Luka, who is enjoying a remarkable season and is a strong MVP contender. His current season averages include 32 points, 8.2 rebounds, 8.9 assists, and an impressive field goal percentage of 48.2%.

Mavericks-Lakers clash see four players with 30+ points

The most exciting game of the night was the game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers fresh off winning the NBA Cup were on a four-game winning streak and the Mavericks were on a three-game winning streak with them not ready to relinquish their form.

Luka Doncic and LeBron James
Luka Doncic and LeBron James after the game (via Twitter)

The Mavericks started strong, winning the first quarter 34-26, but the Lakers made a comeback, leading 95-93 by the end of the third quarter. Despite losing the final quarter 34-30, the Lakers couldn’t secure the overall win. The high-scoring nature of the game was evident as both teams had two players each scoring 30+ points. Anthony Davis led with a double-double of 37 points and 11 rebounds, while Luka Doncic contributed 33 points, six rebounds, and 17 assists. LeBron James added 33 points, eight rebounds, and nine assists, and Tim Hardaway Jr. finished with 32 points along with three rebounds and assists.

Despite the Mavericks securing the maximum points, fans truly got their money’s worth with both teams showcasing exceptional offensive skills. Looking ahead, the Mavericks are set to face the Minnesota Timberwolves, while the Lakers are gearing up for a matchup against the San Antonio Spurs.

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