Lakers Star Luka Doncic Highlights His Underrated Defense

Doncic wishes more people would talk about his aggressive play on the defensive end.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic spoke about the defensive aspect of his game that he wishes more people would pay attention to. Doncic had an impressive defensive performance in the Lakers' win over the Indiana Pacers, recording two blocks and three steals. Head coach JJ Redick praised Doncic's defensive impact, noting his ability to contain the basketball and generate steals and deflections. Doncic is second on the team in defensive rating behind only Jarred Vanderbilt, one of the Lakers' top defenders.

Why it matters

Doncic is known for his elite offensive skills, but his defensive contributions are often overlooked. This story highlights Doncic's well-rounded game and the impact he makes on both ends of the floor, which is crucial for the Lakers' success.

The details

In the Lakers' win over the Pacers, Doncic had a standout defensive performance, recording two blocks and three steals. One of his blocks came on an impressive play where he swatted away a shot attempt by Pacers guard Aaron Nesmith, leading to a Lakers fast break. Doncic's defensive rating of 114.4 is second on the team behind only Jarred Vanderbilt, who is considered one of the Lakers' top defenders.

  • Doncic's comments about his defense came after the Lakers' 128-117 win over the Indiana Pacers on Friday.

The players

Luka Doncic

A star player for the Los Angeles Lakers who is known for his elite offensive skills but also makes a significant impact on the defensive end.

Jarred Vanderbilt

A Lakers player who is considered one of the team's top defenders, with a defensive rating better than Doncic's.

JJ Redick

The head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, who praised Doncic's defensive contributions and impact.

Aaron Nesmith

A guard for the Indiana Pacers who was the victim of one of Doncic's impressive blocks during the game.

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What they’re saying

“I know people are not going to talk about it ever. Just trying to do my job. Trying to be more aggressive, be more engaged. Just trying to be better defensively.”

— Luka Doncic (Clutchpoints)

“I think he's had really good stretches, and then sustainable stretches for games. And then there seems to be a game every now and then where the engagement and effort is not there. There's times within a game that there's maybe one or two possessions. But I would say across the board, on our team, outside maybe Marcus Smart that's the case for our guys on that end of the floor.”

— JJ Redick, Head Coach (Clutchpoints)

“We have the numbers. When he switches on to the ball, it's the lowest of any of our perimeter guys in terms of points per possession. So I think he's done a good job. He's shown that he can contain the basketball. He's obviously one of the best wing defensive rebounders in the NBA. He's able to generate steals and deflections. With some proddings, taking charges as well. So he's doing a lot of good things defensively.”

— JJ Redick, Head Coach (Clutchpoints)

What’s next

The Lakers will look to continue their strong defensive play as they aim to secure a playoff spot in the competitive Western Conference.

The takeaway

Luka Doncic's defensive contributions are often overlooked, but this story highlights his well-rounded game and the impact he makes on both ends of the floor for the Lakers. Doncic's defensive effort and ability to generate stops and turnovers are crucial to the team's success.