“New” Luka Doncic gives Lakers fans glimpse of what to expect on long-awaited return

Luka Doncic made a strong preseason debut for the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday, scoring 25 points in a 113–104 loss to the Phoenix Suns. The game came just a week before the start of the regular season.

It was Doncic’s first appearance since the EuroBasket quarterfinals, where his Slovenia team fell to Germany despite his 39-point effort.

Strong night despite limited minutes

The former Real Madrid standout had skipped the Lakers’ first three preseason games but returned to JJ Redick’s starting lineup with an efficient performance. Doncic shot 7-for-14 from the field and 4-for-8 from three-point range, adding seven rebounds and four assists in just over 22 minutes.

It was his first outing in purple and gold since last season’s playoffs, when he scored 28 points in the Lakers’ Game 5 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the opening round.

LeBron still sidelined with sciatica

The Lakers were once again without LeBron James, who is recovering from a sciatica issue. The 40-year-old is expected to miss the team’s regular-season opener on Oct. 21 at home against the Golden State Warriors and could be out for at least the first week of the season.

Support from Reaves and Ayton

Austin Reaves matched Doncic with 25 points, while center Deandre Ayton recorded a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds against his former team.

The Suns were led by Jared Butler, who exploded for 35 points on a night when Devin Booker did not play.

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