Luka Dončić Set to Make Debut for the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday Against Utah Jazz
Luka Dončić, the five-time All-NBA guard, is expected to make his highly anticipated debut with the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday when they face the Utah Jazz.
While the Lakers will be hosting the Indiana Pacers on Saturday, head coach JJ Redick stated that he doesn’t anticipate Dončić playing in that game, as the star guard is still recovering from a calf injury.
“Probably more likely Monday,” Redick said Thursday night. “No commitment made on anything, but it’s probably trending more toward Monday.”
Dončić, who was acquired from the Dallas Mavericks in a blockbuster trade, participated in 5-on-5 drills at practice on Wednesday without any setbacks. “All is well. All is positive,” Redick added. “Hopefully we get the word at some point in the next few days that he is going to play. We all want to see him in a Laker uniform.”
The Trade that Brought Dončić to L.A.
In a surprising move, the Lakers traded star forward Anthony Davis to the Mavericks late Saturday in exchange for Dončić, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris. The Mavericks received Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round draft pick as part of the deal.
In addition, the Utah Jazz played a key role in facilitating the trade, receiving Jalen Hood-Schifino and a 2025 second-round draft pick from the Lakers. Dallas also sent a 2025 second-round pick to Utah.
Dončić’s Injury and Return
The 25-year-old Dončić has been sidelined since Christmas Day due to a left calf strain. Before the injury, he was playing at a high level, averaging 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists across 22 games this season.
After being drafted by the Atlanta Hawks in 2018, Dončić was traded to Dallas, where he spent his entire NBA career. Now, as a member of the Lakers, he looks to help guide the team through the remainder of the season, starting with his debut against Utah on Monday.
What’s Next for the Lakers?
The addition of Dončić, along with Kleber and Morris, gives the Lakers a significant boost, especially with LeBron James already in the mix. The Lakers are looking to make a strong playoff push with their newly revamped roster. Fans are eagerly awaiting Dončić’s debut and hoping to see him on the court in the iconic purple and gold.
