The Lakers Are Already Winning the Luka Dončić Trade—It Only Took One Game:
Ahead of Luka Doncic’s highly anticipated debut for the Los Angeles Lakers, LeBron James delivered a message that resonated with the 25-year-old star: “Don’t fit in, get fully fit.” It kicked off a night that felt more like a coronation than a game.
Doncic’s debut was spectacular. The sold-out Crypto.com Arena greeted him with gold No. 77 T-shirts, Serbian music blaring from the speakers and fans capturing every moment on their phones. His former teammate Dirk Nowitzki and Doncic’s father were also in attendance, adding to the emotional atmosphere of the occasion.
Despite some poor play early, Doncic quickly found his rhythm, assisting on a highlight-reel alley-oop just 50 seconds in. The chemistry between him, James and Austin Reaves was immediately evident, leading the Lakers to a dominant 132-113 win over the Utah Jazz.
Lakers coach JJ Redick praised the selfless play, saying it was a “no agenda game beyond winning.” Reaves contributed 22 points and 9 rebounds, while James led all scorers with 24 points and 8 assists.
The night concluded with Lakers GM Rob Pelinka and Jeanie Buss hugging Doncic in the tunnel. For Doncic, it was a surreal moment — surrounded by fans wearing his jersey and welcomed by a new family on the court. “The support I got was unbelievable,” Doncic said. “I just want to be here with them, play and win.”
It’s time yet, but if this game was any indication, Dončić’s era with the Lakers is off to a special start.
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