The Los Angeles Lakers closed out their season with disappointment, despite having LeBron James and Luka Doncic leading the charge. Their performance in the NBA playoffs left much to be desired and clearly exposed some of the team’s biggest shortcomings. Still, if there’s a silver lining, it’s the growing relationship between the two stars.
As the Lakers navigate one of the most dramatic offseasons in franchise history, Doncic’s camp is working to ease internal tensions. In a statement to the media, Doncic’s manager, Lara Beth Seager, praised the Lakers’ leadership and emphasized Luka’s respect for James.
“The Lakers’ leadership team has been incredibly welcoming and supportive of Luka since we arrived in L.A.,” Seager told ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne. “We’ve spent a lot of time talking and getting to know each other over the last few months, and we’ve formed a strong working relationship.”
Doncic, 26, is still adapting to his new environment following the blockbuster NBA trade that sent him to the Lakers in February. Averaging 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per game, he has been outstanding in Los Angeles. However, growing concerns have emerged over a reported rift between LeBron James and the Lakers’ front office. To help stabilize the situation, Doncic’s camp issued a public message of support for his veteran teammate.
“Championships are won when you work together. We all share that same goal,” Seager said. “Luka loves playing with LeBron and has learned so much from him. He has nothing but the utmost respect for LeBron and considers it an honor to be his teammate.”
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Though James and Doncic have played fewer than 30 games together, they quickly developed on-court chemistry. Their pairing helped the Lakers finish with the third-best record in the Western Conference, and the offense operated at an elite level when they shared the floor.
Despite ongoing rumors of LeBron‘s potential departure, the Lakers remain hopeful. Should he stay in Los Angeles, and with the new acquisitions made by the front office, expectations are high for a bounce-back season.
