The long anticipated return of Los Angeles Basketball and debut of superstar forward LeBron James as a member of the Los Angeles Lakers finally came in the teams pre-season opener match vs the Denver Nuggets.

Since his signing with the Lakers, “Laker Nation” has been anxiously waiting for James to suit up in the purple and gold.

The acquisition of James brought the Lakers their first established star since the departure of Kobe Bryant in 2016.

Along with James, the Lakers acquired several key pieces in hopes of a championship run. Rajon Rondo, Lance Stephenson, and Javale McGee are some of the veteran players signed this offseason along with James in hopes of changing the teams championship odds.

Before the numerous signings by GM Rob Pelinka, the Lakers had a talented young core that included rookie sensations point guard Lonzo Ball and stretch forward Kyle Kuzma. The Lakers hope the mixture of  the teams young potential and veteran leadership will lead to the end of the storied franchise eight year championship drought.

The first taste of the new “Showtime” Lakers came on Sunday’s preseason opener vs a Western Conference foe, the Denver Nuggets. Along with the debut of the team’s summer additions, the Lakers also debuted their “Showtime” inspired home jersey.

Their pre-season opener would be spoiled as they fell to the Nuggets 124-107. James finished with 9 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists in just 15 minutes of play.

The loss isn’t something to dwell on as the teams key players are on minute restrictions throughout the whole preseason. The Lakers hope to be ready by for their season opener on October 18th against the Portland Trail Blazers.