The Luka Dončić era in Los Angeles officially began with a signature move that left fans in awe.
Making his much-anticipated debut for the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena on Monday night (US time), Dončić wasted no time making his presence felt. His first basket in the purple and gold came in the form of a step-back three-pointer over Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler, electrifying the crowd and setting the tone for what Lakers fans hope will be a historic tenure.
The 25-year-old Slovenian superstar returned to the court for the first time since Christmas Day, when he was still with the Dallas Mavericks.
After suffering a left calf strain, Dončić and his team prioritized his full recovery before stepping back onto the hardwood. With the NBA All-Star break just around the corner, the Lakers ensured he was fully fit before giving him the green light to play.
Dončić joined the Lakers in a blockbuster trade on Feb. 1, 2025, which sent superstar big man Anthony Davis, guard Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick to the Mavericks. The deal, a three-team trade, also involved Jalen Hood-Schifino and a future second-round pick heading to the Utah Jazz, while the Lakers acquired Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris, along with Dončić.
Despite playing in just his 23rd game of the season, Dončić quickly found his rhythm. Through the first 24 minutes, he recorded 11 points on 4-of-9 shooting, three rebounds, and three assists in 15 minutes of action.
The excitement surrounding Dončić's arrival in Los Angeles is undeniable. As the five-time All-Star embarks on this new chapter, Lakers fans are hopeful his magic touch will return the franchise to championship contention. One thing is certain: when Dončić has the ball, special things tend to happen.