Lakers appeal Luka Doncic technical with suspension looming

The Lakers are hoping to buy Luka Doncic a little time.

According to ESPN, the team has already filed an appeal with the league to rescind Doncic’s 16th technical foul, which came during Saturday’s 105-104 win over the Magic. If it stands, Doncic would be suspended for Monday’s game against Detroit.

The technical came late in the third quarter after Doncic and Orlando’s Goga Bitadze exchanged words at the free-throw line. Officials assessed double technicals after what crew chief Marc Davis described as continued taunting, adding that both players had been warned.

Doncic saw it differently. He said Bitadze crossed a line with comments about his family and admitted he reacted.

“At some point, I just can’t stand it,” Doncic said, while also acknowledging he needs to be better.

Bitadze pushed back. He told ESPN he was simply repeating what Doncic said first, claiming the exchange was mutual and taken out of context. He added he respects Doncic and his family and even offered an apology if anything went too far.

The Lakers, for their part, believe a warning should have been enough.

History may help their case. Doncic has hit the 16-tech mark before and seen the final one rescinded.