INGLEWOOD, Calif. — In the midst of the vibrant NBA rivalry in Los Angeles, opposing coaches JJ Redick and Tyronn Lue have found common ground in their belief that Luka Doncic and LeBron James could create a formidable duo for the Lakers. Redick expressed optimism about their ability to synergize their skills effectively and quickly.
Although Doncic is not yet ready to hit the court for the Lakers, having not played in their recent game against the Clippers, his presence loomed large over the matchup. This game marked the first since the Lakers executed a significant trade, sending Anthony Davis and Max Christie to the Mavericks in exchange for Doncic, along with Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris.
Prior to the game’s start at Intuit Dome, coaches from both teams were frequently queried about Doncic’s potential influence on the Lakers and how he might mesh with James, who is currently in the middle of his remarkable 22nd NBA season. Lue, having previously guided James to a championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers while he played alongside Kyrie Irving, is in a unique position to comprehend the integration process that Redick faces for Doncic’s eventual return.
A playful smirk crossed Lue’s face when he addressed prevalent opinions from analysts like Charles Barkley and Paul Pierce, who expressed skepticism regarding the compatibility of James and Doncic as both are accustomed to handling the ball. Lue dismissed their concerns, stating, “They’re not right. It’ll work. When you have LeBron James, who’s been the best player in the league for the last 15 years, and you have Luka — who’s a top-three, top-five player in the league — they’ll figure out how to make it work. LeBron can play with anybody… I don’t see it’s going to be a problem at all.” He also expressed confidence that Redick would effectively manage their playing time.
JJ Redick and Luka Doncic share a past, having been teammates during the final stretch of Redick’s career in Dallas in 2021. They also developed a bond, speaking fondly of their friendship and mutual respect. Redick mentioned that he dedicates time to build a solid working relationship with Doncic as both a player and a coach. He noted spending time together after Doncic arrived in town, anticipating a fruitful partnership moving forward.
Doncic is making strides toward a return from a strained left calf, which has kept him sidelined since Christmas. He is set to engage in 5-on-5 practice sessions soon, after which the Lakers and his team will discuss his reentry into competitive play.
Speculation regarding Doncic’s influence echoed throughout the city of Los Angeles. Notably, Anze Kopitar, captain of the Los Angeles Kings, commented on Doncic’s global stardom and the pride his achievements bring to Slovenia, a small nation where sports successes are highly celebrated. “He’s obviously a superstar around the world, not just in Slovenia,” Kopitar said, adding that it’s exciting to have him joining the Lakers, a team with a history of Slovenian players, including fan favorite Sasha Vujacic. Kopitar, who usually watches a few Lakers games each season, anticipates following the team more closely in the future due to his children’s enthusiasm for Doncic.
