The NBA Has a new superduo! Luka Dončić celebrated his eagerly awaited debut for the Los Angeles Lakers and played for the first time at the side of LeBron James. Before the eyes of Dirk Nowitzki and numerous fans in the Crypto.com Arena, the new star duo led the Lakers to a convincing 132:11 win against Utah Jazz.
A debut with goosebumps moments
Even before the game started, a special atmosphere was in the air. A small but significant change caused a sensation when the players were presented: for the first time since moving to Los Angeles, Lebron James was not called last, but Luka Dončić. When his name sounded through the hall, the audience rose and greeted him with loud cheers.
Dončić, who had only switched from the Dallas Mavericks to the Lakers a few days ago, was back on the floor after a short break. His first minutes in the Lakers jersey showed that he quickly fits into his new team. The Slovenian superstar came to 14 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists in a total of 24 minutes. His first successful litter was a step-back trial-a specialty with which he had already caused a sensation in Dallas.
Lebron enthusiastic about his new partner
LeBron James delivered a strong performance with 24 points, 7 rebounds and 8 assists and was visibly enthusiastic about Dončić’s debut after the game. Even before the tip-off, he had given his new teammate on the way that he should not adapt, but should simply go through his game. In the field, the two stars harmonized straight away and provided some spectacular moments.
Dirk Nowitzki, who was a special support for Dončić in the hall, visibly enjoyed the spectacle. The German NBA champion and long-time mentor of Dončić did not want to miss the premiere of his former teammate. After the game, he explained that it was a matter of course for him to accompany Dončić in this new chapter, even if his heart continues to beat Mavericks for the Dallas.
A spectacular trade causes discussions
The move from Dončić to Los Angeles came as a surprise to many. The Mavericks gave their long -standing flagship in a trade, in which Anthony Davis moved to Dallas. For the Lakers, however, Dončić’s commitment means a new era in which they want to position themselves as a title candidate.
The start could hardly have been better. The interaction between Dončić and James worked amazingly well, although the two had only trained together for a few days. The Lakers, who are already in a strong phase, were able to celebrate their sixth success in a row with this victory and strengthen their position in the upper half of the Western Conference.
What does Dončić’s arrival for the Lakers mean?
With Dončić as the new leader of the franchise, the game of the Lakers could develop. His ability to steer the game relieves LeBron James and creates new opportunities for the team. The fans in particular hope that the interaction of the two superstars can lead the team back towards NBA final.
Of course there are still a few questions left. How will Dončić fit into the Lakers system in the long term? Can he transfer his dominant way of playing from Dallas to Los Angeles? And how will the team adapt to optimally use their strengths?
However, one thing is certain: the first presentation of the new Lakers duo was a complete success. The fans in Los Angeles can look forward to an exciting future – and the entire NBA will be excited whether Dončić and James can lead the Lakers back to the top.
(Tagstotranslate) Dirk Nowitzki