Lakers Fall to Warriors Despite Doncic’s 43 Points; Butler Scores 31 in First Game With Golden State; Heat, Butler Reach Salary Settlement
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LOS ANGELES — Luka Doncic delivered 43 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists on Tuesday, but the Los Angeles Lakers still dropped a 119-109 decision to the Golden State Warriors. Afterward, the guard spent roughly 90 minutes receiving treatment for what he called a minor issue in his right leg.
“It’s probably nothing,” Doncic told reporters, explaining that his hip “went the opposite way” during the game. The 25-year-old hit 13 of 14 attempts in the paint and finished 15-for-17 on two-point shots, according to ESPN Research. He added that his defense “is getting better” as he focuses on communication.
Turnovers and cold outside shooting hurt Los Angeles. The Lakers gave the ball away 20 times and shot 8-for-32 from three-point range. “We continue to be a terrible third-quarter team,” head coach JJ Redick said. “Gotta rethink some things.” The Lakers host the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday.
Butler Impresses in Warriors Debut
In his first appearance for Golden State, Jimmy Butler poured in 31 points and drew praise from Draymond Green. “He’ll be an All-Star again this year,” Green said. “He’s been amazing since the day he showed up.” Green also highlighted Butler’s leadership, noting the veteran’s insistence that teammates “get shots on goal” instead of dwelling on mistakes.
Butler arrived in February in a five-team trade that sent Andrew Wiggins to Miami, then signed a two-year, $121 million extension through 2027. Tuesday’s performance suggested a fresh start after a turbulent finish with the Heat.
Heat, Butler Resolve Suspension Pay
Butler’s split with Miami is financially complete. The South Florida Sun Sentinel reported the forward reached a settlement that returns roughly half of the $6 million in salary he lost during two suspensions last season. The NBA Players Association had filed a grievance on his behalf.
While the Heat were deemed justified in suspending Butler nine games for conduct detrimental to the team and another five for withholding services, the agreement addresses the length and economic impact of the penalties.
Source: Hoops Wire
