The anticipation for Los Angeles Lakers fans ended Monday night when Luka Donc made his debut in Purple and Gold at Critherto.com Arena against Utah jazz.
Doncic played 24 minutes since all the stars of the Lakers played under 30 years (Austin Reaves). He took the most, scoring 14 points, grabbing five rebounds and distributing four assists. He was over 15 years old while he was on the floor and 5 of 14 from the field.
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The Los Angeles Lakers Guard, Luka Doncic, gestures when he returns during the first half of a NBA basketball match against Utah jazz on Monday, February 10, 2025 in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
He had not played from Christmas due to an injury and then it was the main part of an exchange of success of the Dallas Mavericks to the Lakers. When fans received Doncic shirts, and he entered the floor with LeBron James, Doncic admitted that he was a “little nervous.”
“I (I don’t remember) the last time I was nervous before the game. But once I entered the court again, it was fun. Just being there outside, he felt incredible,” he said after the game.
The Lakers won the game 132-113.
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The Los Angeles Lakers Guard, Luka Doncic, arrives before a NBA basketball match against Utah jazz, on Monday, February 10, 2025 in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
“Only the number of cheers in the sand was absolutely incredible,” said Doncic. “That was my favorite part, and play again.”
As the season progresses, Doncic’s chemistry with James will be a key factor. The Lakers moved to 32-19 in the year with the victory and are currently in fourth place at the West Conference. Being out of the game tournament will be a key to the team.
“Knowing Luka, if you will admit this or not, there were probably some nerves playing for the Lakers for the first time, and the anticipation of this building,” said Lakers chief coach JJ Redick. “I thought he handled it very well, and played very well tonight … He didn’t do it Luka. He made a good basketball and play Laker’s basketball.”
T -shirts with the Los Angeles Lakers Guard Number Luka Doncic are placed on fans seats before a NBA basketball game between the Lakers and the Utah Jazz on Monday, February 10, 2025 in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
Los Angeles will go to Utah to play jazz again before the All-Star Break begins.
