On Monday night, the long-awaited debut of Luka Doncic with the Los Angeles Lakers took place as they faced off against the Utah Jazz in a decisive 132-113 win at home in Los Angeles.

As the starting lineups were announced, Lakers fans erupted into cheers for Doncic, who was introduced last, just after LeBron James. The five-time NBA All-Star, appearing for the first time since Christmas, scored 14 points, grabbed five rebounds, and tallied four assists in just 14 minutes while on a minutes restriction.

The Lakers made headlines on February 2 when they traded for Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks, sending shockwaves through the basketball community.

Below, we revisit other noteworthy NBA debuts since 2000 that followed significant trades or signings in free agency.

Anthony Davis and the Los Angeles Lakers: Oct. 22, 2019

Performance: 25 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 blocks

Outcome: Lakers lost 112-102 to the LA Clippers

After a trade saga that began in the 2018-19 season, the Lakers successfully landed Davis during the offseason, forming a dynamic duo alongside LeBron James. Davis made his debut against the Clippers, who had also made headlines by acquiring Paul George and Kawhi Leonard.

In a highly charged atmosphere, the 6-foot-10 forward impressed with 25 points, becoming one of three Lakers to score over 20 points in their debuts.

Kawhi Leonard with the LA Clippers: Oct. 22, 2019

Performance: 30 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals

Outcome: Clippers triumphed 112-102 over the Lakers

Leonard’s Clippers debut followed a championship run with the Toronto Raptors. His impactful performance included a blistering second quarter featuring seven consecutive baskets as part of a dominant offensive display.

Performance: 27 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks

Outcome: Warriors fell 129-100 to the San Antonio Spurs

Durant’s move to the Warriors in 2016 remains iconic in NBA history, significantly raising expectations for his eventual debut alongside stars like Stephen Curry and Draymond Green.

However, the Spurs effectively disrupted those expectations by delivering a strong performance that night. Despite the setback, Durant led his team with 27 points and 10 rebounds, later reflecting that the loss was “a slap in the face.”

Carmelo Anthony with the New York Knicks: Feb. 23, 2011

Performance: 27 points, 10 rebounds, 2 steals, 1 assist

Outcome: Knicks won 114-108 against the Milwaukee Bucks

Following a season-long trade saga, Anthony’s arrival was finalized just before the 2011 deadline. Raised in Brooklyn, he had openly expressed his interest in joining the Knicks.

His debut featured an unforgettable welcome, complete with enthusiastic cheers and a tribute video showcasing his desire to play at home. He made an immediate impact, scoring 10 points in the fourth quarter to seal the victory.

Performance: 31 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocks

Outcome: Heat lost 88-80 to the Boston Celtics

Following “The Decision,” James’ first outing with the Heat attracted immense viewership, setting a record at the time for cable viewership for an NBA game. Facing the Celtics, James scored a remarkable 31 points, showcasing his skills despite the boos from Boston fans.

Postgame, he acknowledged that building chemistry with his new teammates would take time, emphasizing the need for patience.

Performance: 19 points, 6 assists, 5 rebounds, 4 steals

Outcome: Wizards lost 93-91 to the New York Knicks

Three years after retiring, Michael Jordan returned to the NBA, this time donning a Wizards jersey. He announced his comeback in September 2001, coinciding with his role as president of basketball operations.

His first game back was hosted at Madison Square Garden against the Knicks, a venue where he had enjoyed great success with the Chicago Bulls. Unfortunately, Jordan struggled, scoring just 19 points on 33% shooting in a narrow defeat.