The initial season featuring the LeBron James and Luka Dončić collaboration for the Lakers concluded short of their aspirations, ending in a first-round playoff loss against the Minnesota Timberwolves. However, this outcome doesn`t diminish the promising outlook for Los Angeles with Dončić now part of the team.
Dončić`s mid-season trade to the Lakers from the Dallas Mavericks in February 2024, following his leadership of the Mavericks to the NBA Finals, was unexpected. While adapting to the change was challenging for the Slovenian standout, playing alongside James, whom he admired since childhood, eased the transition.
“It`s fantastic; I`ve never played with anyone quite like him,” Dončić commented on the Mind the Game podcast, shared with James and Steve Nash. He added, “Getting traded to LA was a significant change, but playing alongside individuals like him is incredible. I`m able to absorb so much, especially off the court – everything he does to prepare for games. And on the court, naturally, his skills are universally recognized.”
Dončić humorously pointed out that one of the most striking observations since joining James is his meticulous pre-game preparation routine.
“Firstly, he arrives like 10 hours before tip-off,” Dončić stated. “That was truly the standout detail. I was like, `Seriously?` I`d get to the arena, and he`d already finished his workout.”
James` remarkable dedication is the cornerstone of his 22-year NBA career, maintaining an elite performance level throughout. This mutual respect is evident, as James expressed admiration for Dončić`s skill in controlling the defense, irrespective of who is guarding him.
“It`s always his tempo, and it has been throughout his career,” James commented. “He operates at his speed, and he`s never been in a game where he permitted an opponent to dictate his positioning. It`s consistently been the reverse, and for us, we adapt around that. We just need to remain alert.”
James further elaborated on the exceptional nature of Dončić`s passing prowess.
“Clearly, throughout his career, we`ve witnessed plays and assists that only a select few players in the history of the league have been capable of,” James stated. “For us, this means we must constantly be prepared, particularly against disruptive, athletic teams that aim to quicken our pace. We need to stay vigilant at all times because you never know when an unexpected pass might come your way, which is a positive aspect. This keeps the defense guessing and is a valuable asset.”
James and Dončić rapidly developed chemistry after the 26-year-old arrived. His presence helped the Lakers ascend the Western Conference standings, securing the No. 3 seed with a 50-32 record. While the Timberwolves ended the Lakers` championship aspirations this summer, the season served as a clear preview of the team`s potential with Dončić in the upcoming years.
James` NBA tenure might be nearing its conclusion, potentially lasting just a few more seasons before retirement. However, the wealth of experience he can impart to Dončić will benefit both him and the Lakers long after the four-time champion steps away from the game. This season offered glimpses of this mentorship, with Dončić apparently observing and learning from James` commitment to maintaining peak physical condition.
Time will tell if James` rigorous habits influence Dončić`s routine. Should they, it could elevate his game even further.
Jasper Hawthorne