The renewed Luka Doncic is back on the court, and it didn’t take long for him to prove that his physical transformation is more than just aesthetic. In his preseason debut with the Los Angeles Lakers, the Slovenian star delivered a powerful performance against the Phoenix Suns, showing that his competitive fire remains intact. Doncic posted 25 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists in only 22 minutes, confirming that the so-called “Slim Luka,” as he’s known in the U.S., is ready to dominate the NBA once again.
Despite Doncic’s brilliance, the Lakers fell 113-104, dropping to a 1-3 record in the preseason. The team continues to play without LeBron James, who remains sidelined for personal reasons and may not return for several weeks. Still, there’s no panic in Los Angeles—Doncic is healthy, motivated, and prepared to lead the franchise into a new era.
The Lakers ensured Doncic was fully prepared
According to Mundo Deportivo, the Lakers’ coaching staff rested Doncic during the first three preseason games after his intense summer, which combined heavy training with his participation for the Slovenian national team. The wait paid off: Doncic looked explosive and efficient, shooting 7-for-15 from the field and 4-for-8 from beyond the arc.
“He had no chance against the Don!” pic.twitter.com/j8mP7JIpBd
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) October 15, 2025
Austin Reaves also impressed with 25 points, while Deandre Ayton added a double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds. On the Suns’ side, Jared Butler led the way with 35 points, and Nigel Hayes-Davis—a former Barcelona player and pupil of Saras Jasikevicius—contributed 10 points and 6 rebounds, though he couldn’t slow down Doncic’s momentum.
Hayes-Davis’s return to the NBA after shining with Fenerbahçe and winning the EuroLeague highlights the growing European influence in the league. Yet the night undoubtedly belonged to Doncic. With his new physique and undiminished hunger, he looks ready to seize the NBA throne once and for all.
