Luka Doncic Called 'Unwatchable' After Lakers' 111-89 Loss to Celtics

luka doncic drew sharp criticism after the Los Angeles Lakers’ 111-89 loss to the Boston Celtics on Feb. 22, 2026 at Crypto. com Arena, with national analysts faulting his frequent complaints to referees and calling his behavior a distraction.

Luka Doncic drew scathing criticism from analysts

Veteran analyst Zach Lowe unloaded on the guard on The Zach Lowe Show, saying the complaining had reached a tipping point. “The whining is back to peak Dallas levels, ” Lowe said. “It’s every f***ing play. Just play, man. Not everything is a foul. Are you playing to draw a foul or playing basketball? Which one are you doing? Are you playing one-on-one with the refs? It’s every possession now. It’s completely out of control. It’s unwatchable. ”

Other commentators have raised similar concerns; Max Kellerman also called out Doncic for what he described as constant referee complaints, adding to the chorus of criticism after the Boston game.

Poor defense and referee clashes overshadowed a 25-point night

Despite finishing with 25 PTS, 5 REB and 3 AST on 9/22 FGM, the guard’s effort on defense and repeated arguments with officials stood out during the loss to Boston on Feb. 22, 2026. The Celtics' physical approach drew visible frustration from Doncic, and his exchanges with referees became a recurring storyline through the second half at Crypto. com Arena.

Free-throw frequency and what the stat sheet says

While criticism focused on demeanor, the broader numbers underline how often Doncic attacks the rim. Through 44 games this season he led the league with 10. 8 free-throw attempts per game, a mark that eclipsed his previous career high of 10. 5 set in 2022-23 with the Dallas Mavericks. That free-throw volume highlights why foul calls — and the lack of them — have become such a lightning rod for discussion.

Next stop on the calendar

The Celtics will be back on the court Tuesday night to face the Phoenix Suns at 9 p. m. ET, a scheduled game noted after Boston’s win over Los Angeles. For Lakers watchers, the immediate focus will be whether the guard alters his approach after the public criticism he faced following the 111-89 defeat on Feb. 22, 2026.