Former NBA player Kendrick Perkins makes a bold prediction on Luka Doncic future

Luka Doncic has become the most important trade for the Los Angeles Lakers in recent years. However, his arrival raised questions about his physical condition. But now, Luka is in great shape and fully committed to the team. He has quickly adapted to the franchise and the city. In fact, he already shares a mural with Kobe Bryant in Los Angeles. This detail speaks volumes. Because of this, former NBA player Kendrick Perkins felt confident enough to make a strong prediction about Luka’s future.

“Luka Doncic will never play for another franchise. History tell us that. Going from Jerry West to Magic Johnson, Kareem, Kobe. Once you get in the Lakers, you are there. Except from Shaq, he was the only one. But even look at LeBron, came and it is his 7-8 season. He is still here. It is because the Lakers are build on Championships, but also build on show…He (Luka) is not going anywhere. He will retire as a Laker,” stated Kendrick Perkins on ESPN.

The surprising part is how unthinkable this all seemed just a few months ago. Doncic was not only the cornerstone of the Mavericks’ project but was also a symbol of Dallas. In fact, he recently said in an interview that he dreamed of retiring there. However, the NBA world moves fast. Things change quickly, and now Luka sees in the Lakers what he always wanted: a big market, strong fan support, and a competitive roster.

Luka Doncic, LeBron James and Austin Reaves are building a dominant offensive trio with the Lakers

Many questioned whether Luka Doncic would adapt quickly to life in Los Angeles. Nonetheless, he shut down the doubters and outperformed all expectations for a mid-season addition. Lakers head coach JJ Redick built an offense around Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves, creating a well-balanced system that lets all three shine.

Luka Doncic #77 and Lebron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers speak to an official during the second half against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center on April 8, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

This offensive trio did not just prove critics wrong, they gave the Lakers a solution to ease LeBron’s offensive workload. By shifting responsibilities, the team allowed LeBron to focus on specific roles and play to his strengths. Nevertheless, they have not hit its ceiling yet, and with more time together, they could take a major leap next NBA season.

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How has been Luka Doncic impact on his first season as Lakers’ player?

Luka Doncic played 50 games in his first season with the Los Angeles Lakers. That is impressive considering he arrived midseason. He averaged 28.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game. His scoring average was the highest on the team. He outperformed LeBron James and even Anthony Davis, who had been in great shape before leaving.

He exceeded expectations in his first year with the Lakers. He showed why Rob Pelinka made the right move. The team lacked a dominant scorer, and Luka filled that role immediately. His performance gave fans plenty of hope for the future. Many believe he can improve next season and reach the 30-point average he had with the Mavericks.