Luka Doncic knows he’s one of the best in the league, and like any superstar, he doesn’t think defenders have many ways to stop him. But when the refs let the game get overly physical? That’s when he starts feeling like he’s getting hacked with no whistle to bail him out. If you’ve watched him play, you know exactly what I’m talking about.

The frustration is written all over his face when he doesn’t get a call, and it’s no surprise he’s racked up his fair share of technicals. But let’s not act like he’s completely innocent—the Lakers star’s constant back-and-forth with officials is just as much a part of his game as his step-back three. But he’s taken a different approach now.

With 2:34 left in the first quarter, Doncic drove into the lane and put up a floater but didn’t get the whistle he was expecting. Frustrated by the no-call, he quickly found himself on the other end of the court. Just nine seconds later, with 2:25 remaining, he committed a foul on Warriors youngster Brandin Podziemski—his second personal of the game.

This moment seemed to be a direct follow-through on a statement Doncic made just days ago. Back on March 23 against the Chicago Bulls, he voiced his frustration to the referees, saying, “If he hits me first, I’m going to hit him back, that’s bull—-“. Against Golden State, he lived up to that promise.

Just seconds later, fouled Podziemski. TNT’s Reggie Miller immediately pointed out what many were already thinking: this wasn’t just a routine foul. “Podziemski is down, and he is—well, he got hit, leaving no doubt where that came from,” Miller remarked as Podziemski stayed on the floor.

Miller then suggested that officials might take a closer look at the play, noting the 5x All-Star’s frustration from the previous possession. “Yes, I think they may take a look at this, too, on this foul by Luka Dončić. Because Dončić was upset that he didn’t get the call at the other end.”

That frustration? It’s not just about a single missed call. It speaks to a much bigger issue—one the Lakers have been battling all season. Dončić carries a massive offensive load, and when defenses get extra physical, it takes a toll.

Can the Lakers rely on Luka Doncic and LeBron James for the post season?

As the playoffs approach, the Lakers know one thing—they can’t put it all on Luka Doncic and LeBron James. Sure, the duo has carried them to a 46-29 record, good for the No. 3 seed in the West, but come playoff time, that top-heavy approach won’t cut it. Depth matters, and right now, they don’t have enough of it, especially in the center spot and off the bench.

That’s why the front office is exploring options, and Zach LaVine’s name keeps coming up. The two-time All-Star is averaging 22.8 points per game, and his ability to create his own shot would ease the burden on the Slovenian and LeBron. As Sporting News’ Dean Simon put it, “Both future Hall of Fame inductees have needed a ball-dominant, one-on-one shot-creating co-star to initiate their own offense and take on some of the offensive load at some point throughout their careers.” LaVine fits that mold perfectly.

He’s a proven scorer, shooting 43.2% from three, and has the ball-handling skills to break down defenders. LeBron thrived with Dwyane Wade and Kyrie Irving for the same reason—having another shot-creator opens up the offense. Doncic, who controls the pace like a maestro, could use that same support.

But landing LaVine won’t be easy. The Lakers might have to sacrifice Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and draft picks to make it happen. If that price is too high, Ja Morant has also been floated as an option, though his fit raises questions.

If a blockbuster trade isn’t the move, the Lakers could go the practical route—bolstering their frontcourt. Clint Capela, a rebounding and defensive force, could be a great fit at center without requiring a massive trade package.

Whatever they decide, one thing’s clear: they can’t afford to stand still. If they want a real shot at a title, the time to act is now.