With scores from Luka Doncic, Austin Reeves, and Deandre Ayton, the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 120-106 in another key game of the 2025/26 NBA regular season, extending their winning streak to three games. In an interview, Luka Doncic stated that Deandre Ayton's performance was crucial to the team and that the center must be encouraged to maintain his excellent form.

Luka Doncic scored 31 points and 11 assists for the Los Angeles Lakers in this game, Austin Reeves added 31 points and 8 assists, and Deandre Ayton contributed 14 points and 2 assists.

Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic said in an interview, "It's very encouraging and very special to play a game like this. I think all the players who went on the court played exceptionally well, and everyone fought to the very end, which is why we won the game."

“I think defense is a team effort, and Marcus Smart is our leader in that area; he played exceptionally well. I also think Deandre Ayton was outstanding. But apart from them, I think everyone did a great job. Of course, the opponents put a lot of pressure on us, but I think we played really well.”

Luka Doncic pointed out, "Deandre Ayton's performance was crucial; he was very focused. Like I just said, he's very important to us. So we need to encourage him to keep playing like this, because when he plays like this, he can help the team win."

When discussing how to defend Minnesota Timberwolves shooting guard Anthony Edwards, Luka Doncic said, "Marcus Smart was guarding him from the start, but against a player like that, the whole team needs to work together to limit him, not just one person."

“I also think Austin Reeves is an outstanding player. He is very talented, intelligent on offense, always finds his shooting position, and can outmaneuver the defense in various ways, which is why he is an excellent player.”

Regarding the team's improvement on defense, Luka Doncic said, "I think it's mainly about the level of effort and communication. Communication on defense is very important. I think we've been communicating with each other all the time, which helps everyone to get into their defensive positions."

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