Luka Doncic Believes Lakers Can Win Championship, Cites Roster Overhaul
The Lakers' superstar expressed confidence in the team's revamped roster since the first day of training camp.
Luka Doncic has voiced his belief that the Los Angeles Lakers are capable of competing for a championship this season, echoing sentiments previously expressed by coach JJ Redick. Doncic stated at Lakers practice on Saturday that his confidence stems from the team's cohesion since the initial day of training camp.
"Since the first day everybody came together in Slovenia — except Cam [Carr] couldn’t make [it] — I believed that we can win a championship," Doncic said. He added that the team's roster moves over the summer were influenced by his desire to play alongside certain players.
Doncic reportedly wanted to play with Austin Reaves, who was signed to a four-year, $180 million contract. Additionally, Doncic sought to have Walker Kessler as the team's center, leading to the Lakers acquiring him from Utah in a sign-and-trade deal for two unprotected first-round picks and two first-round pick swaps. Kessler signed a four-year, $130 million contract.
The Lakers underwent a significant roster transformation this offseason, adding nine new players after being eliminated in the second round of the playoffs last May. Doncic himself missed the entire postseason due to a strained left hamstring, an injury he sustained in a regular-season game against the Thunder on April 2.
Reflecting on last season, Doncic acknowledged regretting playing through the initial stages of his hamstring injury. He believed the team had championship potential at that time and felt his injury hindered their efforts. "So it’s definitely motivating for this season," he commented.
With LeBron James having departed for the 76ers in free agency, the Lakers have largely become Doncic's team. He has taken on this leadership role seriously, organizing a minicamp in Slovenia in August and covering the expenses for the entire team to build chemistry prior to the season. Doncic stated that this investment has paid off, and the team's scrimmages confirmed his belief in their potential to compete for an 18th championship banner.