Luka Doncic began a new era for the Los Angeles Lakers in impressive fashion, scoring 28 points in a commanding 127-105 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday, while several other NBA stars made memorable season-opening appearances.
With LeBron James departing for Philadelphia in July, Doncic has become the Lakers’ central figure. The Slovenian announced his championship ambitions through a full-page advertisement in the Los Angeles Times, declaring, “Tonight we start our run for a championship.”
The 27-year-old backed up his message with a strong performance, including a spectacular halfcourt three-pointer before halftime. Los Angeles dominated the contest, building a lead of 35 points despite Stephen Curry scoring 23 for Golden State.
“It was just how everybody played,” Doncic said. “I think first quarter our defense wasn’t that good, but then after that we just locked in and I think everybody had fun.”
New signing Walker Kessler also enjoyed a remarkable Lakers debut, scoring 26 points while converting all 12 of his field-goal attempts, including 10 dunks.
“What he did today was unbelievable for us,” Doncic said.
Elsewhere, Anthony Edwards produced a stunning 45-point performance as the Minnesota Timberwolves defeated Miami Heat 131-106, spoiling Giannis Antetokounmpo’s debut.
Edwards joined Wilt Chamberlain and Michael Jordan as the only players with multiple 40-point season-opening performances. He also collected 10 rebounds and three assists, while newcomer LaMelo Ball contributed 21 points.
“At this point, me and him are gonna be like best friends,” Edwards said of Ball.
Antetokounmpo scored 35 points and grabbed six rebounds, but Miami struggled to contain Minnesota’s attack.
In Washington, Anthony Davis marked his Wizards debut with 34 points and 12 rebounds in a 128-118 victory over Milwaukee. Trae Young added 20 points and 13 assists.
Toronto also celebrated a successful reunion with Kawhi Leonard, crushing Chicago Bulls 135-92. Leonard, Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley scored 23 points each.
Meanwhile, Tyrese Haliburton made an emotional return from an Achilles injury, contributing 23 points and 12 assists as Indiana Pacers edged New Orleans Pelicans 123-120.
“It means a lot to be back out here,” Haliburton said after the victory.
Kyrie Irving also returned after more than 19 months recovering from a knee injury, scoring 15 points as Dallas Mavericks lost 128-110 to Houston Rockets.
The opening fixtures highlighted a changing NBA landscape, with established stars returning from injuries and major offseason transfers already shaping the new campaign.
