LOS ANGELES — Luka Doncic was introduced as the last starter for the Los Angeles Lakers, a choice typically reserved for superstar LeBron James. As Doncic stepped into the spotlight on a dimly lit court, he was met with a thunderous ovation from fans dressed in thousands of gold shirts featuring his name and number. Even at a young age, Doncic could sense the magnitude of this special occasion.

“I felt a bit nervous initially,” Doncic shared. “I can’t recall the last time I felt this way before a game. However, once I was on the court, it turned into pure enjoyment. Just being back out there was an incredible experience.”

Doncic’s debut with the Lakers was short yet impactful on Monday night, imprinting excitement for what lies ahead in Los Angeles. He contributed 14 points while playing just 23 minutes, effortlessly integrating with James and the rest of his teammates during the Lakers’ 132-113 win against the Utah Jazz. Doncic’s statistical line also included five rebounds and four assists, highlighted by a stunning three-quarter-court pass to James for a layup just before halftime.

Having missed nearly seven weeks due to injury, Doncic expressed his joy at rediscovering his passion for basketball while also looking to leave behind the uncertainty that his recent trade from the Dallas Mavericks had brought him. The crowd erupted in applause for Doncic, who sported the familiar No. 77 jersey, marking his pre-game announcement as a moment he would treasure for years to come.

“The level of cheering in the arena was simply amazing,” Doncic recalled. “That was the highlight for me — getting to play again.”

He noted that James reached out that morning, offering support. Doncic took the opportunity to take the last spot in the starting introductions, adding that they would switch roles in the next home game, prompting smiles from both players. “It shows what kind of person he is. He allowed me to have my moment,” Doncic added gratefully.

His first points came from a 3-pointer early in the game, and he went on to score 11 points as Los Angeles built a dominant 25-point lead by halftime. Doncic exited the game with just over three minutes left in the third period; by that time, the Lakers had already established a solid lead in their sixth consecutive victory.

This match marked Doncic’s first since straining his left calf during a Christmas game. After a week of acclimatization to Los Angeles and rehabilitation, Doncic joined James, Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Jaxson Hayes as starters for the Lakers, who had already been on a hot streak, winning 11 out of their last 13 games even before Doncic’s arrival.

To safeguard Doncic’s recovery, the Lakers have implemented a minutes restriction. Though he struggled with his long-range shooting, going 1 for 7 on 3-pointers, his playmaking ability meshed well with his new teammates. His initial touches included an alley-oop assist to Hayes followed shortly by his first 3-pointer, igniting a wave of “Luka! Luka!” chants from the enthusiastic crowd.

Reaves, who recorded 22 points, noted, “I believe we can create something beautiful offensively, maximizing our possessions every time. Luka is among the best passers globally, and with his high basketball IQ alongside James, we possess the ability to shoot, pass, and play the game the right way.”

Among the fans was Dirk Nowitzki, Doncic’s former mentor in Dallas, who observed the unfolding of this potential new chapter for Doncic, who is seen as a worthy successor to Nowitzki’s legacy. Coach JJ Redick, a former teammate in Dallas, praised Doncic’s composure and approach throughout the high-pressure game.

“With Luka, there’s likely a touch of nerves playing for the Lakers at such a monumental game, but I think he managed it well,” Redick commented. “He focused on playing solid basketball rather than making it all about himself.”

LeBron James made his return from a one-game absences as the Lakers kicked off a two-game series against the Jazz, right before the All-Star break. Utah coach Will Hardy expressed confidence in Doncic and James’ synergy, remarking on their incredible basketball intelligence and ability to collaborate effectively.

Prior to the game, Doncic made headlines by donating $500,000 toward fire recovery efforts in his new community, showcasing his commitment to addressing the devastation left by the recent wildfires in Southern California, including areas like Pacific Palisades, where Redick experienced significant loss.

“It’s disheartening to learn about the damage caused by the wildfires since arriving in LA,” Doncic remarked via social media under his foundation’s name. “My heart goes out to all the children who lost their homes, schools, and places of joy.” Closing his statement, he signed it, “Your new neighbor.”