Luka Doncic Eager To Start Playing Big Games For Lakers, Starting In Playoff Date With Timberwolves

Luka Doncic has been with the Los Angeles Lakers for 2 1/2 months now, and he's feeling fairly comfortable in his new home. He is building chemistry with his new teammates, who are getting used to his brilliant passes, prolific scoring outbursts and fiery competitiveness.

But the playoffs begin this weekend, and the Lakers know they're about to see yet another side of their Slovenian superstar.

"I like big games," Doncic said Thursday with his typical understatement. "The playoffs is a fun time. Everybody plays 100. It's just fun to be out there."

Doncic is one of the top playoff performers of his generation, and he is just one year removed from his remarkable effort in carrying the Dallas Mavericks to the NBA Finals despite significant injuries to his right knee, left ankle and chest.

Doncic is healthier now - and he has LeBron James on his side this spring when the third-seeded Lakers begin the first round against the surging Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 on Saturday night.