Doncic Unfazed by Defensive Criticism: People Will Keep Talking

The Los Angeles Lakers beat the Toronto Raptors at home at crypto.com Arena on Sunday. After the game, when asked about his defense, Luka Doncic smiled. Head coach JJ Redick and center Walker Kessler had recently praised Doncic's work on defense. That is a notable change for a player whose defensive effort has long been criticized.

The six-time All-Star Slovenian superstar said he does not know why his defensive reputation is what it is. Doncic admitted he is not the best defender, but said he believes he has taken a serious step on defense this season. He said he does not care about the outside criticism. He added that people and the media will keep talking the way they want, but that he and his team know they are better this season.

Doncic did not play for more than half a year before the season started, so he said he has been trying to find his rhythm. Saying he is doing well as long as the team wins, he noted that his form improves with every game. The shortened previous season disappointed him.

The Lakers are fourth in the Western Conference with a 5-2 record. Doncic leads the team with averages of 37.7 points, 8.2 rebounds and 7.3 assists per game. Redick's team will host Giannis Antetokounmpo's Miami Heat on Monday. For the Lakers, that game will be the second of two consecutive matches.