In Doncic’s first full game for the Lakers sans LeBron James against the Brooklyn Nets on March 10, the five-time All-Star recorded his second triple-double in purple and gold by registering a line of 22 points, 12 rebounds, and 12 assists in over 41 minutes. His playmaking intangibles were on full display with his shot failing him that evening (9-of-26 from the field), and with the Bucks owning the fourth-best defense since the All-Star break (109.5 points allowed per 100 possessions), a similar situation could unfold on the road Thursday.

Doncic has recorded 12 or more assists in three of his last four games, and now James (groin) isn’t around to run the offense in intervals by his side. So much is going to be asked of him in nearly all facets of the game until his 40-year-old teammate returns, and with the exception of perhaps Austin Reaves (10 assists in loss to Nets), no one left standing is capable of getting the remaining Lakers quality looks with the roster lacking playmakers. 

Milwaukee’s blueprint for success should be to test Doncic’s recovering calf and force him to make ill-advised decisions away from the basket. Expect fewer points and more dimes as a result from the 26-year-old as another potential triple-double looms. 

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