The Los Angeles Lakers beat the Philadelphia 76ers in their showdown on Sunday, 112-108. LeBron James was sensational with a season-high 29 points, on top of seven rebounds and six assists to help the Purple and Gold bounce back after their blowout loss to the Boston Celtics in their last outing.
James scored 10 straight points in the closing minutes to prevent the Sixers’ comeback and ensure the Lakers’ victory.
Luka Doncic was equally sensational, as he led the Lakers in scoring with 31 points, along with 15 rebounds and 11 assists.
The Lakers improved to 17-6 on the season with the win, keeping them among the top teams in the Western Conference.
Lakers legend Magic Johnson was naturally ecstatic about the Lakers’ latest victory, and he was full of praise for James and Doncic following the contest.
“LeBron James was nothing short of spectacular scoring 11 straight points in the 4th quarter (including three straight 3-pointers) and had 29 total points tonight to defeat the Philadelphia 76ers 112-108!” Johnson wrote.
However, what stood out from Johnson’s message was his bold take about Doncic, claiming that he’s the top MVP candidate right now.
“The NBA’s leading candidate for MVP, Luka Doncic, had a triple double with 31 points, 15 rebounds and 11 assists!” Johnson added.
While it’s true that Doncic is in the MVP talks this 2025-26 season, many were quick to point out that he’s not the “leading” candidate. Many consider Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to be the top two for the award so far this campaign.
“Sorry Sir, but SGA is clearly and by far the the MVP. The Lakers are doing great, but let’s live in reality,” a commenter wrote.
Another one said, “Luka is leading in MVP race. SGA it’s a laker thing so I get it. Only thing bron can do to impress me in the regular season is score 100 points and that won’t happen. Lead la to a championship and win it.”
““Luka Doncic, NBA’s leading candidate for MVP” – Am I awake?” a follower stated.
Sure enough, Doncic has a chance to prove Johnson right. But until he surpasses both Jokic and Gilgeous-Alexander, many will continue to doubt his MVP candidacy.
