By Evan MasseyShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberThe Los Angeles Lakers have gotten off to a very strong start in their first full season with Luka Doncic leading the charge. At this point in time, the team holds a 12-4 record heading into their Tuesday night showdown against the Los Angeles Clippers.
Doncic has begun the season on a high note. He has dominated opponents night in and night out.
Through his first 12 games this year, the 26-year-old superstar has averaged 34.5 points per game to go along with 8.9 assists, 8.8 rebounds, and two steals. He has also shot 46.7 percent from the floor and 31.1 percent from three-point range.
Read more: Lakers Emerge as Contender to Pull Off $195.8 Million Blockbuster Trade
Obviously, Doncic could be a bit more efficient with his perimeter shooting. However, there has been very little to be upset about for the Lakers. With him leading the way, Los Angeles looks like a legitimate Western Conference contender.
...With that being said, the Lakers took to social media on Tuesday before playing the Clippers to share historic news about Doncic.
Doncic is the first player in NBA history to record 400 or more points and 100 or more assists in the first 12 games of a season.
"Historic start for Luka Dončić," the post from Los Angeles read along with a graphic of his historic feat.
Rob Pelinka has to be feeling very good about his aggressive move with the Dallas Mavericks last season before the trade deadline. Giving up Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and more was a no-brainer decision to acquire a player like Doncic. The move has been paying off in a big way so far this season.
It will be interesting to see if Doncic is able to keep up the pace he has been on this season. Should he be able to do so, there is no doubt that he will be one of the top contenders to win the NBA MVP award at the end of the year.
Read more: Golden State Warriors Could Pursue Massive Trade for $186 Million Star
Not only did the Lakers pull off the aggressive trade for Doncic last season, they were also able to lock him up long-term with a new contract this offseason. Pelinka and the front office agreed on a three-year, $165 million extension with the 26-year-old superstar.
The battle for Los Angeles will tip off on Tuesday night at 11 p.m. ET and fans will be able to watch it on NBC and Peacock.
For all the latest NBA news and rumors, head over to Newsweek Sports.
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