Luka Doncic finally made his much-awaited debut for the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday night in a game against the Utah Jazz. This was Doncic’s first game since being traded to the Lakers last week.
Luka Doncic Debuts for Lakers
Doncic had not played since December 25 due to a left calf strain. Lakers head coach JJ Redick confirmed that he was on a minutes restriction to ensure a safe return. “We want to ease Luka back in,” Redick said.
He started in the lineup alongside LeBron James, Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Jaxson Hayes.
The Lakers are currently on a five-game winning streak and welcomed Doncic in a big way. Fans at the arena received free No. 77 jerseys to celebrate his debut.
Additionally, Doncic announced that his foundation would donate $500,000 to support wildfire recovery efforts in Los Angeles.
Dalton Knecht, whom the Lakers had traded to Charlotte as part of a deal for Mark Williams, was scratched from the game after the trade was canceled. Meanwhile, Cam Reddish, also part of the trade, was out for personal reasons.
Doncic’s arrival is expected to boost the Lakers’ performance as they aim for a strong finish before the All-Star break. Fans are excited to see how he fits alongside LeBron James and the rest of the team.
