Luka Doncic Embraces Leadership Role with Lakers Amidst LeBron James' Departure

Luka Doncic is stepping into the spotlight as the undisputed leader of the Los Angeles Lakers, following LeBron James' departure to the Philadelphia 76ers. Head coach JJ Redick met with Doncic on Wednesday to discuss his new role, a conversation Redick plans to have with every player on the roster.

"It's something he's really excited about," Redick said Thursday at Lakers practice. Doncic now carries the torch for a franchise that has not won a championship in six years, a significant drought for the 17-time title winners. Redick emphasized the need for Doncic to lead not just by example, but also vocally and through his demeanor in critical moments.

"I think as a leader you can always grow," Redick stated. "That’s part of most good leaders that I know at least—they have that growth mentality. I think Luka has a growth mentality as a player. And I don’t think there’s any reason to believe that it won’t extend that to leadership."

The coach highlighted the importance of Doncic's body language, both positive and negative, recognizing that the team, along with Austin Reaves, will look to him for guidance. "This group of guys is going to follow him and AR [Austin Reaves]. That’s just the reality. They’re going to follow those two guys, and that’s a huge responsibility for both of those guys."

Doncic, who previously led Real Madrid to a EuroLeague championship as the youngest MVP in its history and guided the Dallas Mavericks to the NBA Finals in 2024, is no stranger to leadership. However, the intense scrutiny and expectations that come with playing for the Lakers present a unique challenge.

"I was in this position in my career a lot of times, so it’s not new to me," Doncic said when asked about being the Lakers' torchbearer. "But I feel great. I feel excited. And like I said, I’m ready to go."

Doncic has been actively involved in shaping the Lakers' roster this offseason, advocating for the re-signing of Austin Reaves to a four-year, $180 million deal and the acquisition of center Walker Kessler, who received a four-year, $130 million contract. These moves underscore Doncic's commitment to building a championship contender.

Redick pointed to Doncic's commitment by noting he arranged a private plane for 14 to 16 players to travel to Slovenia for a four-day minicamp, an unprecedented initiative for the star. "That’s pretty extra," Redick remarked.

While Doncic has always shown leadership qualities, even alongside James, Redick clarified that his role is evolving. "The idea that he wasn’t in a leadership position or didn’t have moments of leadership over the last season and a half that we had him is just false," Redick said. "I think it’s different without certain people on the team. Naturally, there’s a void. We talked about that all summer."

The team expects Doncic to not only excel offensively but also to improve in areas like minimizing complaints to officials and increasing defensive hustle. Redick believes Doncic, having experienced a wide range of NBA scenarios, possesses the knowledge and readiness to lead one of sports' most storied franchises into its next chapter.