Since arriving in Los Angeles, Luka Doncic has made a significant impact on both the Lakers and their community. While the Slovenian guard has shown flashes of brilliance, his shooting struggles have been a recurring issue since joining the team. Amid this challenge, the Los Angeles Lakers leader LeBron James made it clear that he and the team are not concerned about Doncic’s shooting woes.
Doncic recently returned to action after missing over a month due to a calf injury he sustained while playing for the Dallas Mavericks. Since debuting with the Lakers, Doncic has played six games, averaging 19.3 points on 36.5% shooting from the field and just 22.4% from beyond the arc.
Following the Lakers’ 111-102 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, James emphasized that the team has full confidence in Doncic, explaining that the star guard’s ability to impact the game goes far beyond his shooting percentages.
“It’s gonna happen,” James said after the win, via The Athletic. “We’re not worried about that. So to be able to still maintain our game, and him to still be able to make an impact with him not shooting well right now, that’s what makes him special”.
LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers helps Luka Doncic #77 up from the floor after a Minnesota Timberwolves foul during a 111-102 Lakers win. (Harry How/Getty Images)
Doncic’s shooting issues were evident against the Timberwolves, where he finished with 21 points on 6-for-20 shooting, including a dismal 1-for-9 from three-point range. Despite the shooting slump, the Lakers remain fully confident in the 26-year-old star.
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Doncic grateful for Lakers fans’ support
Doncic, who admits he’s not yet back to being the dominant player he was in Dallas, expressed gratitude for Lakers fans who continue to support him even during his struggles.
“It’s amazing,” Doncic said. “I think the atmosphere has been amazing. Even when I’m playing bad — I don’t think I’ve had a good game here yet — but every time I check in, they cheer for me. So this is an unbelievable feeling to be here”.
Finding his rhythm remains Doncic’s top priority
Despite the rocky start, Doncic acknowledges that rediscovering his rhythm is his main focus as he works through his shooting slump. “It’s a big thing for me,” Doncic said. “You got to go through a lot of downs to get to the highest point, but it’s a big challenge for me. Just getting back into my rhythm, making those easier shots. For me, it’s a big challenge, but I look forward to it”.
For Doncic, the Lakers’ confidence and the support of the fans are fueling his drive to overcome his early struggles and return to the level of dominance that made him one of the league’s brightest stars.
