Luka Doncic is now a Los Angeles Laker following what many consider the most shocking trade in NBA history.
With the trade deadline looming, the Lakers are focused on quickly improving their roster to ensure they have the depth and defense needed to support the dynamic duo of Luka and LeBron.
Doncic’s future with the Lakers looks exceptionally bright, especially with LeBron James – one of the greatest players of all time – serving as a mentor. Since this trade was announced, an overwhelming amount of news has circulated in the NBA and surrounding the Lakers.
Can’t spell Luka without L.A.
Despite the intense media attention, the perfect player to step into this situation now resides in Los Angeles. Doncic is poised to elevate the game of basketball and potentially revitalize the NBA’s declining ratings, possibly leading to championships sooner rather than later.
LeBron has consistently expressed his support for Luka throughout his career, even selecting him for multiple All-Star game teams and indicating his willingness to play alongside a player of Doncic’s caliber. In his 22nd year, LeBron has mastered how to handle the media from every angle, and under the bright lights of Los Angeles, the stage is set for one of the most star-studded duos in NBA history.
Doncic is averaging 28 points per game and 7.8 assists, demonstrating his remarkable offensive skills. Since entering the NBA in 2018, he has captivated fans in Dallas with his unique style of play, earning him the nickname “Luka Magic.”
Lakers’ newest dynamic duo
Teaming up with LeBron, Los Angeles has two perennial Hall of Famers and some of the best players to ever share a court.
LeBron’s playmaking ability has sparked discussions on how he elevates the performance of his teammates and the same can be said of Doncic. While James previously advocated for Russell Westbrook’s arrival to the Lakers, Doncic presents a different scenario.
At just 25 years old, he has yet to reach his prime, while LeBron is still impressive, averaging 24 points and 9.1 assists. For this dynamic duo to succeed, the Lakers need to surround them with skilled shooters and solid defenders.
Players like Austin Reaves, Dorian Finney-Smith, and Rui Hachimura all shoot above 37% from three-point range, and with Doncic on the court, those percentages are likely to improve further. Defensively, the Lakers can rely on these players, along with Jarred Vanderbilt, to support Luka and LeBron as they aim for success.
Mark Williams traded to the Lakers
None of this works without a strong center, and aside from Jaxson Hayes, the Lakers traded Dalton Knecht to the Hornets in exchange for the promising center Mark Williams.
This season in Charlotte, Williams has averaged 15.6 points and 9.6 rebounds. With this blockbuster trade, the Lakers have yet again strengthened their roster by adding depth and defensive capability. Offensively, Williams provides a lob threat for Doncic, ensuring a bright future together. In the last 10 games, Williams has been excelling, averaging 20 points, 12 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks.
Lakers raising another banner?
The Lakers currently have the sixth-best odds to win the NBA Finals, trailing only Oklahoma City and Denver in the Western Conference. LeBron’s chances of winning another championship appear better than ever amidst the ever-changing landscape of the NBA. Additionally, the Lakers’ pursuit of Doncic could help extend King James’ tenure in Los Angeles.