NBA Notes: Lakers, Luka Doncic, Warriors, Stephen Curry, Kings

Lakers

Luka Doncic saw the Mavericks again Friday night, and this time it felt more like a business trip than a reunion.

As Dan Woike of The Athletic wrote, the shock of last season’s blockbuster has faded. Nico Harrison, the GM who sent Doncic to Los Angeles, is already gone.

So Luka showed up, stayed locked in, and put up 35 points, five rebounds and 11 assists in a 129-119 Lakers win.

“I would say it’s a little bit easier now,” Doncic said. “But games against Dallas always have some special meaning to me.”

Austin Reaves stole plenty of the spotlight too. He dropped 38 points and continues to look like a first-time All-Star. Doncic even joked about it afterward.

“I’m just happy he’s on my team,” Doncic said. “And that’s probably the last compliment I ever give him.”

Meanwhile, LeBron James is questionable for Sunday’s game against the Pelicans because of left foot injury management, per ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.

Marcus Smart is doubtful with back spasms.

Warriors

Golden State is learning quickly what life looks like without Stephen Curry. They have the league’s worst offensive rating when he sits, and now he’s out at least a week with a quad contusion.

Coach Steve Kerr told reporters that generating shots without Curry requires “a lot more precision and a lot more patience.”

— Rookie Will Richard continues to earn trust with his low turnover rate. Scott Ostler of the San Francisco Chronicle wrote that Kerr already uses him in starting and closing lineups. “He’s in the right spot, the right time,” Kerr said. “He makes the game easier for everyone else.”

Kings

Dennis Schroder underwent an MRI and has a mild hip flexor strain, per James Ham of The Kings Beat. He’s day-to-day and questionable for Sunday against the Grizzlies.