The Los Angeles Lakers began their new NBA campaign with an emphatic 127-105 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday, as Luka Doncic and newly acquired center Walker Kessler led the team in its first game since LeBron James’ departure.
The Lakers entered the season following a major offseason shake-up that included James’ exit and the sale of the franchise. James, who helped lead Los Angeles to the 2020 NBA championship and became the NBA’s all-time leading scorer during his time with the team, has signed with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Doncic Leads Lakers’ Dominant Performance
Doncic finished with 28 points, eight rebounds and seven assists, capping the first half with a high-arcing shot from beyond half court at the buzzer. He then exchanged words with Warriors rookie Yaxel Lendeborg as the crowd erupted.
“Everybody knows when somebody starts talking, you got a different me,” Doncic said.
ICC Announces Groups for 2027 Women’s U19 T20 World Cup
Early in the third quarter, Doncic delivered a behind-the-back pass to Kessler, who converted it into a dunk in a play reminiscent of the Lakers’ celebrated “Showtime” era led by Magic Johnson.
Kessler made an immediate impact in his Lakers debut, scoring 26 points on a perfect 12-of-12 shooting performance after arriving from the Utah Jazz.
Kessler Earns Praise from Shaquille O’Neal
Kessler’s flawless shooting display drew praise from Lakers legend Shaquille O’Neal, who welcomed the new center to the NBA’s big-man fraternity.
“I’m happy for you, I’m proud of you. Welcome to the big man alliance,” O’Neal said.
“That means so much coming from you,” Kessler replied.
The Lakers led by as many as 35 points in the second half, maintaining control after pulling away from Golden State in the third quarter.
Curry Unable to Stop Lakers’ Momentum
Stephen Curry scored 16 points for Golden State during a competitive opening stretch. However, the Warriors lost momentum after head coach Steve Kerr opted to rest the 38-year-old guard late in the first quarter.
Curry returned in the second quarter but could not prevent the Lakers from taking control of the contest.
By the closing stages, many Warriors fans had left the arena. Those remaining began chanting, “We want Bronny,” referring to Bronny James, LeBron James’ 22-year-old son, who plays for the Lakers.
Head coach JJ Redick sent Bronny into the game late in the fourth quarter, prompting a loud reaction from the crowd. The young guard responded by making a floater in the lane to put Los Angeles ahead 127-100.
The Lakers ultimately secured a convincing 127-105 win to open their campaign on a strong note.
