The Los Angeles Lakers star had received his 16th technical foul of the season ahead of the team's game against the Detroit Pistons.
Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic received his 16th technical foul of the season against the Orlando Magic on Saturday night, something that would trigger an automatic one-game suspension. It’s something that Doncic fans are certainly used to, with him accruing calls throughout the seasons in his career, typically due to fervent disagreements with referee calls during games. The one Doncic received Saturday was a bit different, as Doncic was called for a double technical alongside Magic’s Gogo Bitadze after the two had an exchange while Doncic was at the free throw line. Both players, naturally, had different perspectives on what happened.
The Lakers had already issued an appeal to have the foul rescinded due to Bitadze’s involvement, and the NBA ruled in Los Angeles’ favor, rescinding Doncic’s 16th tech that allows him to now play in the team’s road game against the hot Detroit Pistons on Monday night. It is the third time Doncic had racked up 16 technical fouls in one season, and the third time it was rescinded after receiving it. Both previous seasons were with the Dallas Mavericks. Now, Doncic will hope to help keep the Lakers’ win streak alive on Monday night in Detroit.
Here is the full story from Lakers Roundtable writer Grant Monda on head coach JJ Redick addressing the situation and how it fits into Los Angeles’ bigger picture.
The thrilling 105-104 victory extended the team’s winning streak to nine games, with Los Angeles looking to build on that with their tenth on the road with Doncic. He finished Saturday night with 33 points and eight assists.