Los Angeles Lakers followers had loads to cheer about as Luka Doncic made his extremely anticipated debut.
The distinction in feelings between Lakers and Dallas Mavericks followers was palpable, with the sold-out Los Angeles crowd buzzing with pleasure to welcome its latest star, acquired in a blockbuster commerce for Anthony Davis.
After sitting out with a calf pressure, Doncic took the court docket in Lakers colours, enjoying 24 minutes in his first look.
ESPN analyst Brian Windhorst praised the Lakers’ calculated method to Doncic’s debut.
The crew strategically selected a matchup towards the Utah Jazz, whose roster struggles to match the Lakers’ expertise degree, permitting for a snug transition.
“First off, not enjoying in six weeks, you’re going to really feel a little bit bizarre going on the market. However enjoying in that purple and gold for the primary time, I seen he needed to go over to the bench and ask for a bottle of water earlier than the primary day trip. I feel that mouth was a little bit dry, for varied causes. However, you realize, he didn’t have to play nice on this sport. … This can be a good onboarding for Luka Doncic,” Windhorst stated, by way of NBA on ESPN.
“The one means you get in basketball form is to play basketball.” 😅 @WindhorstESPN and @ThisIsUD on their takeaways from Luka Doncic’s debut with the Lakers. pic.twitter.com/FuQsE1FV2c
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) February 11, 2025
In his debut, Doncic posted a modest however efficient stat line: 14 factors on 5-of-14 capturing, 5 rebounds and 4 assists, contributing to a commanding 132-113 victory.
Regardless of nonetheless discovering his rhythm, he delivered a highlight-reel second simply earlier than halftime, threading an ideal full-court cross to LeBron James for a simple layup that despatched the gang right into a frenzy.
The night time wasn’t about statistical dominance however relatively about Doncic settling into his new position with one of many NBA’s storied franchises.
With the pressure-free atmosphere fastidiously crafted by the Lakers’ group, Doncic’s integration into the crew seems to be off to a promising begin.
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