Luka Doncic dazzles in his Lakers debut, leading the team to a thrilling win over the Jazz!©(rvhk919)
Luka Doncic made a memorable debut for the Los Angeles Lakers, describing the occasion as a “special moment” after helping the team secure a commanding 132-113 victory over the Utah Jazz. The five-time NBA All-Star, who recently arrived from the Dallas Mavericks in a high-profile trade that saw Anthony Davis move in the opposite direction, overcame a calf injury to take the court for the first time in Lakers colours.
The Slovenian star wasted no time making an impact, draining an early three-pointer to the home crowd’s delight. Over his 24 minutes on the floor, Doncic donated 14 points, five rebounds, and four assists, showcasing his ability to complement his new teammates. However, his return to action was not without concern, as he briefly left the game in the first quarter for treatment on his left calf. While he could return to the court, he exited again late in the third quarter with the Lakers in complete control, holding a 93-69 lead.
Reflecting on his first appearance with the Lakers, Doncic expressed appreciation for the warm reception from the fans. “I heard a lot of noise when I was introduced – it was a special moment,” Doncic said postgame. “The way they received me, it was amazing to see. I was slightly nervous before the game, but it was fun once I stepped on the court. Just being out there again felt amazing.”
LeBron James recreated a climactic role in the Lakers’ victory, leading all scorers with 24 points while recording eight assists and seven rebounds. The win propelled the Lakers to fourth place in the Western Conference classes, while the Jazz remained near the bottom, sitting 14th.
In other NBA action, Nikola Jokic delivered a dominant performance for the Denver Nuggets, tallying 40 pinpoints, eight assists, and seven rebounds as the reigning champions dismantled the Portland Trail Blazers 146-117. Meanwhile, Anthony Edwards exploded for 44 points for the Minnesota Timberwolves, but his efforts were not enough to prevent a 128-107 defeat at the hands of the Eastern Conference-leading Cleveland Cavaliers.
Stephen Curry also delivered a standout performance, scoring a season-high 38 points to lead the Golden State Warriors to a 125-111 road victory over the Milwaukee Bucks. Curry connected on six three-pointers, while newly acquired teammate Jimmy Butler, playing his second game since his trade from the Miami Heat, added 20 points to help secure the win.
