Synopsis
Luka Doncic's debut with the Los Angeles Lakers was electrifying, scoring 14 points in limited time and contributing to a six-game win streak following a significant trade from the Dallas Mavericks.Key Takeaways
- Luka Doncic scored 14 points on debut.
- Lakers extended winning streak to six games.
- Doncic recorded five rebounds and four assists.
- His first basket was a 3-pointer.
- Doncic's chemistry with LeBron James was evident.
Los Angeles, Feb 11 (NationPress) Luka Doncic had an exhilarating debut for the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday (IST), scoring 14 points in limited action while effortlessly blending into a star-studded roster featuring LeBron James.
The Lakers pushed their winning streak to six games, triumphing with a 132-113 win over the Utah Jazz at Crypto.com Arena.
Doncic, acquired through a high-profile trade from the Dallas Mavericks, received a warm welcome from Lakers fans, many of whom donned gold shirts emblazoned with his name and the No. 77.
Despite playing just 23 minutes, Doncic displayed moments of brilliance, racking up five rebounds and four assists, including a remarkable three-quarter-court pass to James for a layup just before halftime.
The Slovenian superstar’s inaugural basket as a Laker was a 3-pointer on his second shot attempt. He contributed to the Lakers' commanding 25-point halftime lead, finishing the first half with 11 points. With Los Angeles firmly in control, Doncic exited for good with 3:07 left in the third quarter.
This match marked Doncic’s return nearly seven weeks after being sidelined due to a left calf strain he sustained on Christmas while still with Dallas.
The Lakers, who traded Anthony Davis and Max Christie to acquire Doncic, have been on a hot streak even prior to his arrival, clinching 11 of their last 13 games.
Starting alongside James, Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Jaxson Hayes, Doncic's impact was immediately recognized. His synergy with James was particularly notable, and as he regains his rhythm post-injury, the Lakers' offense is poised to become even more dangerous.
