Although Doncic has been available for Los Angeles over the past two games, both against Utah, the Lakers had given him a minutes restriction, easing him into the comeback process. Between both games, the Slovenian totaled 30 points, nine rebounds and eight assists in 47 minutes of action (23.5 minutes per game).

Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) is defended by Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen (23) in the first quarter at Crypto.com Aren

From incorporating their new star to seeing if they can sustain success with their small-ball lineups, the Lakers have 30 regular-season games to try to improve their playoff position.