Hypocrisy or just basketball? The NBA world tears into Luka Doncic for complaining about Damian Lillard’s tricks

Luka Doncic found himself on the receiving end of a familiar basketball tactic when the Los Angeles Lakers faced the Portland Trail Blazers, and fans haven't been shy about pointing out the irony.

Despite Doncic's impressive individual performance, Portland secured a 136-129 victory on October 27.

However, an intriguing second-quarter exchange between the Lakers superstar and Damian Lillard became one of the game's biggest talking points.

With 2:44 remaining before halftime, Doncic drew a shooting foul while Portland held a 61-59 advantage. The Slovenian guard raised his arms and appeared amused by the situation, with Lillard and Donovan Clingan nearby.

He subsequently converted all three free throws, giving Los Angeles a brief lead.

The moment took an interesting turn less than a minute later. At the 1:34 mark, Lillard appeared to employ a similar foul-drawing move, earning three free throws after Doncic was called for the shooting foul.

During the sequence, Doncic appeared to take contact around his jaw and remained on the floor briefly. His teammates gathered around him as he eventually stood up, continuing to work his jaw. One broadcaster even joked that the Lakers star might need a dentist.

Lillard missed his first attempt but converted the remaining two, putting Portland ahead 65-64.

Doncic's reaction sparks questions about a double standard

The exchange reignited discussions about Doncic's reputation for drawing fouls and using exaggerated reactions to attract officials' attention.

The Lakers guard has frequently frustrated opposing supporters with his ability to manufacture contact and get defenders into difficult situations. Yet when an opponent appears to use comparable tactics, the conversation becomes considerably more complicated.

“Luka foul baits and laughs, then Dame does the same thing to him, and he cries,” wrote one fan.

“This is why Yaxel called him out on game 1. Luka nonstop crying,” wrote another.

Meanwhile, there's encouraging news for Los Angeles ahead of Friday's NBA Cup meeting with the Golden State Warriors. Doncic isn't listed on the Lakers' injury report after missing Wednesday's 103-87 victory over the Clippers because of back tightness.

He's averaging 36.0 points, 6.8 rebounds and 8.3 assists through four appearances, shooting 48.4% from the field.

With Doncic expected back, the Lakers will have their leading offensive weapon available. Adou Thiero remains sidelined with a left knee injury, while Ziaire Williams is questionable.

After the Portland talking point, all eyes will be on Doncic as he looks to deliver another statement performance.