[PHOTOS]: Luka Doncic switches to brand-new look ahead of Los Angeles Lakers Play-Off game against Timbs; intentional twinning with Austin Reaves?

Luka Doncic surprised fans with a new accessory during Lakers practice this week, sparking excitement ahead of the team’s playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The five-time All-Star was spotted wearing a headband, a rare sight since joining the Los Angeles Lakers—and fans quickly embraced the change.

Photos from Tuesday’s practice showed Luka Doncic matching teammate Austin Reaves, who has made the headband a signature part of his game. The Los Angeles Lakers’ official social media account highlighted the moment, posting, "Luka & AR (handshake) headband twins."
The reaction from fans was immediate. One supporter joked, "Headband Luka is going to feed families," while another declared, "Headband Luka unlocked. League is in shambles." The playful buzz suggests fans see the look as a potential good-luck charm for the postseason.


This isn’t the first time Luka Doncic has thrived while wearing a headband. During his time with the Dallas Mavericks, "Headband Luka" became synonymous with dominant outings. He had a particularly impressive 2023 game against the Utah Jazz, scoring 40 points, dishing out 11 assists, and pulling down 10 rebounds, 29 of which came in the first half.
After that game, Doncic humorously downplayed the headband’s influence, saying, "Everyone says it’s the headband. I say it’s me." Still, the trend has stuck, and Los Angeles Lakers fans are hoping it brings similar success in the playoffs.

The Lakers will open their playoff run against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday. Whether the headband becomes a permanent addition remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: fans are all in on the new look as the team gears up for a deep postseason push.
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The upcoming Lakers vs. Timberwolves playoff series, starting April 19 at Crypto.com Arena, promises intense competition. The Los Angeles Lakers, seeded third with a 50-32 record, have bolstered their lineup by acquiring Luka Doncic, joining LeBron James and Austin Reaves as key scorers. The Timberwolves, sixth seed at 49-33, boast a strong defense and offensive threat in Anthony Edwards. Both teams split their regular-season series 2-2, but those games lacked full rosters, making this playoff matchup unpredictable. Lakers coach JJ Redick emphasizes preparation despite limited footage of both teams at full strength. The series will test the Lakers' size and defense against Minnesota's versatile and tough defense.