Smart makes his mark by sparking team with energy

Luka Doncic shouldershimmied his way into the record books again as he became the first Laker to begin a season with consecutive 40-point performances Friday with 49 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists in the Lakers’ 128-0 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves.

- By Tuuc Nui NcuyEnN

MARCUS SMART only had three points Friday, but he was a plus-24 in a win against the Timberwolves.

(ERIC THAYER Los Angeles Times)

After pouring in 43 points in Tuesday’s season opener, Doncic became the fourth player in NBA history to score 40 points in back-to-back games at the beginning of the season, joining Anthony Davis, Michael Jordan and Wilt Chamberlain.

But when asked about his personal feelings on his blazing start, Doncic was quick to mention that he wished the Lakers had won the first game.

The team was happier to celebrate Doncic’s achievements Friday after the Lakers’ first win of the season.

“This performance leading to wins, though, that’s what we really want,” center Deandre Ayton said. “That's the glamour, but I'm just glad we can get wins with this type of performance we're having.”

Here are three takeaways from the Lakers’ first win:

Marcus Smart ripped the ball from Anthony Edwards’ hands. He sprawled to the court to protect the ball and fired a hit-ahead pass to Austin Reaves while seated on the floor. After Reaves converted the layup, Smart screamed toward the Lakers’ bench.

The moment was precisely why the Lakers signed the Il-year veteran.

Smart's energy sparked the Lakers’ surge in the second and third quarters as they wore down the Timberwolves. Smart finished with just three points on one-for-two shooting; he made a three-pointer in the second quarter.