After their game against Golden State earlier this week, many were saying that the Lakers’ season was over before it even began. I wish I were joking about that, but I’m not. Yet, after last night’s game, the narrative has shifted dramatically. Now, many are speculating that the Lakers could be a top-four seed, with players like Doton Connect emerging as potential stars alongside Klay Thompson and others.

But where might we find the middle ground here? I believe there’s some truth to both perspectives. The game against Golden State highlighted their struggles to defend against certain teams, particularly their issues with switching and containing off-ball movement. Conversely, last night’s performance showcased what the Lakers can achieve when they hit their three-point shots and when players like Doton Connect have a stellar night.

It’s essential to maintain a balanced view—overreacting to a bad loss or a good win, especially during preseason, can lead to misleading conclusions. With that in mind, the most significant takeaway from last night’s game and throughout much of the preseason has been Doton Connect. His role in this team, now confirmed to be part of the nine-man rotation, raises questions about what he can bring to the regular season.

So, what did he show during last night’s game that might translate to the regular season? First and foremost, he had an impressive stat line: 35 points, seven rebounds, two steals, and two blocks, including eight made three-pointers. Overall, it was a fantastic game for him, arguably the best performance of his young NBA career.

In the fourth quarter and overtime, he scored 20 consecutive points for his team. His individual defense was also commendable; he locked down Bradley Beal on one play, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. Whether playing with starters or taking on tougher matchups, Doton Connect displayed a commitment that Coach Reic has wanted to see, both offensively and defensively.

Entering the regular season, Doton Connect is averaging 18 points per game during the preseason, second only to Anthony Davis on the team. His stats reflect impressive contributions: 4.2 rebounds, two assists, 1.4 steals, and shooting 43.7% from the field, including 36% from three-point range. This demonstrates his ability to be heavily involved in the offense.

What sets Doton Connect apart from other rookies is his experience. As a five-year college player who started at junior college and progressed to a major D1 school, he has faced various levels of competition. This journey has helped him become a more well-rounded and NBA-ready player. At 23, he is more mature than many of his peers, allowing him to contribute immediately on a contending team like the Lakers.

So, what role can we expect him to play in the Lakers’ rotation? While his fourth-quarter heroics were impressive, his primary role will likely involve filling the off-ball role, capitalizing on catch-and-shoot opportunities, and contributing defensively. He’ll need to take on challenging defensive matchups, proving his effectiveness against top talent.

Doton Connect’s ability to adapt will add a new layer to the Lakers’ offense. The guard-to-guard handoff has become a crucial element of their halfcourt offense, and Connect’s shooting ability makes him a valuable asset. For instance, during a recent play, he took an open three-pointer after a well-executed handoff, catching the defense off-guard. This kind of quick decision-making and shooting ability is something that sets him apart.