Portland Trail Blazers head coach Micah Nori offered high praise for Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Doncic ahead of their recent NBA Cup matchup. Nori, who has guided Portland through a competitive start to the season, noted that Doncic is currently performing at a level that surpasses his peers.
Reflecting on the Slovenian guard’s physical condition and offensive impact, Nori emphasized that the environment in Los Angeles has created a unique opportunity for the star to thrive. He observed that the roster construction allows Doncic to maximize his scoring and playmaking capabilities more effectively than in previous seasons.
“He’s in elite shape, he’s playing with a great amount of confidence, he’s got shooters around him, and he has a rolling big,” Nori told reporters, via “For him, it’s a perfect offensive storm. And he’s the MVP right now.”
Doncic has indeed been on a historic scoring tear to open the 2026-27 campaign. Entering the contest against the Trail Blazers, he was averaging over 38 points per game, placing him in rare company alongside legends like Wilt Chamberlain. His ability to control the pace of the game and consistently deliver high-scoring performances has solidified his position at the top of early-season MVP discussions.
The Lakers star validated Nori’s assessment during the game, erupting for 53 points in a comeback victory that improved Los Angeles’ record to 8-2. Despite the loss, Nori’s comments underscored the widespread recognition of Doncic’s current dominance across the league. While many observers argue it is still early in the season, the sheer statistical output and efficiency displayed by Doncic have made him the focal point of the MVP conversation.
As the season progresses, the league will continue to watch whether Doncic can maintain this unprecedented level of play. For now, opposing coaches and teammates alike are acknowledging that his current form is arguably the best in the NBA, setting a high bar for the remainder of the year.