Luka Dončić has taken some time to find his rhythm after his surprising trade from the Dallas Mavericks earlier this month. However, on Saturday night, he showcased his true potential in Los Angeles with a standout performance, marking his best game with the team to date. In his initial three games, Dončić averaged only 14.6 points while shooting a mere 35 percent from the field.
On paper, Saturday’s clash against the Denver Nuggets appeared to be a tough challenge for both the Lakers and Dončić, particularly since the Lakers had dropped 13 of their last 14 matchups against the Nuggets. Dončić came out aggressive early on, delivering a vintage display with 32 points, ten rebounds, and seven assists, leading the Lakers to a commanding 123-100 victory over the Nuggets.
LUKA DONČIĆ DOMINATES SATURDAY PRIMETIME!
⭐️ 32 PTS (most as a Laker)
⭐️ 10 REB
⭐️ 7 AST
⭐️ 4 STL
⭐️ W pic.twitter.com/V3MGNibQmJ— NBA (@NBA) February 23, 2025
Following the game, Dončić spoke with ESPN’s Lisa Salters about his career-best outing as a Laker, sharing that he is finally starting to feel like himself among his new teammates. “You have been smiling all night long,” Salters noted; to which Dončić responded, “Just finally feeling like myself a little bit. Playing this game, this is what I love. That’s why I was smiling the whole game.”
“Finally being myself a little bit.”
Luka was FULL of smiles during his 32-point night! 🤩 pic.twitter.com/v5D03Km0hj
— NBA (@NBA) February 23, 2025
Adjusting to a new team is always a challenge for players. Joining a team with high expectations, like the Lakers alongside LeBron James, adds even more pressure. The impressive victory against a Western Conference rival on Saturday night demonstrates the immense potential of this Lakers squad when they are functioning optimally. For Dončić, it must have felt gratifying to quiet the critics who have questioned his weight and dedication to the game following his trade.
Looking ahead, Dončić has an opportunity to make an even stronger statement when he faces his former team, the Mavericks, on Tuesday—a highly anticipated matchup given the shocking nature of the trade.
