JJ Redick Addresses Luka Doncic’s Technical Foul Trouble Before Lakers-Nuggets Clash

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Reign Amurao | Last updated Mar 5, 2026 9:25 PM ET

Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic has racked up a ton of technical fouls in the 2025-26 NBA season. On Tuesday, Doncic was called for his 14th technical foul of the season, which puts him near a one-game suspension. During the final moments of the second quarter, the Slovenian star was at the free-throw line.

He missed his first attempt after he was distracted by New Orleans Pelicans center DeAndre Jordan. The veteran big man stepped inside the lane before Doncic could release the shot. The six-time All-Star complained to the referees and told them that it was a lane violation. But the officials ignored the Lakers star.

He knocked down his second attempt, but he couldn't let the no-call go. He continued to complain to the referees, and he was whistled for a technical foul.

Luka Doncic is Nearing a Suspension

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) and head coach JJ Redick Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

On Thursday, this was brought up to head coach JJ Redick, before the Lakers' game against the Denver Nuggets. According to the coach, Doncic is aware of the number of technical fouls he has.

“He’s aware that he’s close. And he’s trying [to not draw more],” Redick said.

JJ Redick on Luka Doncic’s 14 technical fouls - two away from a suspension: “He’s aware that he’s close. And he’s trying [to not draw more]”
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) March 6, 2026

According to the NBA Rulebook, players who accumulate 16 technical fouls in the regular season will automatically be suspended for one game. A $5,000 fine will also be imposed on the player or players. Every two more technical foul calls beyond the sixteenth tech will result in a one-game ban for the player.

Doncic trails Phoenix Suns star Dillon Brooks in technical fouls this season. The Canadian forward has 16 and served his one-game suspension in February.

While Doncic shows passion in the game, fans have criticized him for constantly complaining to officials. His constant complaints have put him in a tricky situation in his first season with the Lakers. LA is trying to make the most of the campaign and needs everyone on board, especially their best player. It's a crucial part of the season, and they can't afford to have the 27-year-old miss one game due to suspension.

It isn't something new, since Doncic has built a reputation of being vocal on the court, even when he was with the Dallas Mavericks. In the 2022-23 season, he came close to being suspended. He finished the season as the player with the third-most technical fouls with 15.

That season, Brooks led the league with 18, while Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green was second with 17.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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