Doncic just had arguably his best game so far as a Laker on Thursday. He scored 45 points on 14-of-27 field-goal shooting and 7-of-13 from 3-point range, and he also grabbed 11 rebounds, three assists, two steals and one block. The Lakers next game will be on Sunday afternoon versus the Phoenix Suns at home.

Without James, Los Angeles relied heavily on star guard Luka Doncic in its 126-106 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday. Turning in 45 points, Doncic did all he could for his new team, but it was not enough.

Reeling with injuries, the Lakers will be without Doncic due to left calf injury management and a sprained right ankle