Lakers star LeBron James gets brutally honest about what excites him most playing with Luka Doncic

The Los Angeles Lakers are enjoying a strong moment as the NBA regular season nears its end. With just seven games remaining before the playoffs, the team is awaiting their postseason matchup. Since Rob Pelinka made the bold decision to trade Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks, bringing in Luka Doncic to play alongside LeBron James, the team’s fortunes have taken a positive turn.

With a 45-29 record, the Lakers are focused on maintaining their position in the Western Conference standings as they aim for their ultimate goal this season: the NBA Finals. LeBron and Luka have developed impressive on-court chemistry, and it’s evident in the way they are playing together.

One of the key factors in their success has been their mutual respect and understanding of each other’s game. From the start, it was clear that Doncic was excited to play alongside his idol, LeBron, which has only strengthened their connection. Now, LeBron has shared his thoughts on playing with Luka.

In a preview for the second season of his podcast Mind The Game, which he previously co-hosted with his current head coach, JJ Redick, LeBron spoke with new host Steve Nash about what excites him most about playing with Doncic.

LeBron James and Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers during a game against the Utah Jazz.

“He plays the game how I’ve always wanted to inspire the next generation to play the game. There’s nothing predetermined; if two guys are on you, it’s a numbers game. If you have the advantage and there’s a guy you can’t guard, or if you’re able to beat him and another defender collapses or sinks, I’m able to make the reads and pass the ball before the play even happens,” LeBron said.

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LeBron reflects on players who inspire through confidence

In addition to Doncic’s influence on inspiring the younger generation, LeBron James shared his thoughts on other players who have similarly impacted the game. LeBron, who believes in the power to change the course of a game, pointed to a few players who have done just that throughout their careers.

“I’ve always loved players who instill so much confidence in their teammates that they make them believe they’re better than they really are. Steve Nash did that, Luka has done that for seven years, and Chris Paul did the same when he was in New Orleans,” LeBron said.

LeBron on Luka’s journey to inspiring his teammates

As the Lakers continue to impress in recent matchups, LeBron took a moment to reflect on Doncic’s growth, acknowledging the lessons Luka learned during his time with Real Madrid and the early stages of his NBA career.

“He learned how to inspire growing up in Slovenia, heading to Madrid, learning the game the right way, and playing at a professional level since he was 13 or 14 years old. He brought that same mentality, that same game to the NBA from day one,” LeBron added.