Luka Dončić was traded from the Dallas Mavericks to the Los Angeles Lakers. This massive trade, in which Dončić was sent to the Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis and draft choices, stunned everyone in the NBA. Now, a few weeks into his new life in Los Angeles, Dončić is proving why the Lakers made a huge gamble signing him.
Dončić quickly proved himself in Los Angeles. He had 14 points in a mere 24 minutes during his debut against Utah Jazz, and his new team beat them with ease, 132-113. Although his statistics were not as high as in a few previous games, they evidently illustrated how he would contribute to the team.
His first against his former club, the Dallas Mavericks, was huge. Dončić recorded a triple-double with 19 points, 12 assists, and a season-high 15 boards in a victory by a score of 107-99. His ability to direct the offense, rebound like a forward, and dictate the pace of the game early impressed Lakers fans.
A big question surrounding Dončić signing with the Lakers was whether he would get along with LeBron James. The answer: very well. Both men understand how to play ball and score with each other, and it’s difficult for opposing teams to defend. James has had high praise for Dončić’s feel for the game, and his relationship with James has been fantastic.
The Lakers score better now because Dončić makes a lot of passes. This keeps LeBron’s energy conserved while also being strong when it matters. They have already made a lot of great plays and collectively proved to be one of the best duos in the NBA. Dončić said it’s great to be playing with James. He said, “LeBron is one of the greatest ever. To share the floor with him and learn from him every day is an incredible experience” (Sports Illustrated). Dončić can perform even in difficult situations, and it has benefited the Lakers. He scored five out of his overall 32 points in overtime in a hard-fought victory against the New York Knicks, and it took them to a victory with a score of 113-109. It made it eight consecutive victories for the Lakers and proved that they are a powerful squad in the Western Conference.
His presence has also relieved some burden from Anthony Davis’s injury, making it easier for the Lakers to remain competitive even in tougher games. The squad now has a record of 39-21 and is a genuine championship contender.
A Lakers front office staff stated regarding Dončić, “Luka has completely changed the dynamic of this team. His leadership and versatility have taken us to another level”(Sports Illustrated). After this season, Dončić will be crucial to the future of the Lakers. He’s just 25 years old and a future star for the franchise. He could be a leader when LeBron does retire. His skill, leadership, and ability to pass to his teammates make him a key player for years to come.
Experts have compared Dončić to NBA legends Magic Johnson and Jerry West. Though he has just begun his career with the Lakers, his performances thus far indicate that he may make a huge difference in Los Angeles. Many people were also very happy with him being the new member of the team, Skip Bayless expressed his thoughts through social media saying “Man, Luka just banged the back of his head on the floor. But looks like he has shaken it off. Back-to-back way-downtown 3s, followed by a corner 3. This game vs sorry Pels is already over.”
Luka Dončić’s presence in Los Angeles has brought new hope to the Lakers to win a championship. He plays exceptionally with the team, does a great job, and has a good relationship with LeBron James, making the Lakers powerful once again. Everyone will be observing Dončić throughout the whole season to determine whether he can guide the Lakers to another NBA championship. Due to his recent performances, Lakers fans have a lot to anticipate for future success.
