Luka Doncic’s highly anticipated Los Angeles Lakers debut turned into a ratings success for ESPN, despite the game itself being a lopsided affair. The Lakers dominated the Utah Jazz in a 132-113 victory on Monday night, yet fans tuned in in record numbers to watch the 25-year-old star in his first game with his new team.

According to Nielsen ratings, the game peaked at 2.55 million viewers, a 42% increase compared to the average NBA broadcast on ESPN last season. The matchup averaged 2.01 million viewers and was the most-watched game of the day in the key advertising demographics of men aged 18 to 34, 18 to 49, and 25 to 54. This strong viewership came despite the game tipping off at 10:30 p.m. ET and the Lakers holding a commanding lead throughout.

Doncic’s Return to Action

Doncic, who was acquired in a blockbuster trade from the Dallas Mavericks earlier this month, had been sidelined since suffering a left calf strain on Christmas Day. In his return, he played only 24 minutes, scoring 14 points, as the Lakers built a comfortable lead early. They led by 12 after the first quarter, extended it to 25 at halftime, and were ahead by as many as 34 points before Doncic sat out the fourth quarter.

Despite his limited playing time, his presence generated immense excitement among Lakers fans and basketball enthusiasts alike. With LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the Lakers now boast one of the most formidable lineups in the league, making them a must-watch team as the season progresses.

Can Doncic and LeBron Coexist?

One of the biggest questions surrounding the Doncic-LeBron pairing is whether two ball-dominant superstars can successfully share the court. Some analysts have raised concerns about how they will adapt their playstyles, but Utah Jazz head coach Will Hardy believes their high basketball IQs will ensure success.

“They’re two of the best thinkers, problem solvers that we’ve ever seen,” Hardy said. “I don’t see any world where those two playing together isn’t a good thing. Their processing speed, mentally, is incredible, and I’m sure they’ll figure it out.”