The Los Angeles Lakers need to prepare for life once LeBron James retires from the team. Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer claims that the franchise targets Luka Doncic as its next big star.
The Lakers, a team with a long history of grandeur and prosperity, are in the business of luring stars. They somehow always locate their next big player. The Lakers still have time to make the most of their present core, which consists of James, Anthony Davis, and rookie guard Austin Reaves. However, LeBron James is signed for another two years.
O’Connor said on The Ringer NBA Show, “I’ve reported on this podcast and on The Ringer how they have their sights set for Luka in the future. We’ll see if that works out. Dallas just made the Finals. Dallas is looking better than ever with their supporting cast. That may not work out. But the Lakers, by not trading their future picks, clearly they’re still thinking long-term at this point. They’re not going all in like you might expect many teams to do with LeBron James.”
But the Lakers must begin planning now and consider how they might add their next franchise player if they hope to avoid a sharp downturn once LeBron leaves. Luka Doncic would be the ideal replacement for Anthony Davis. Davis is already at thirty-one and is arguably not the greatest player the Lakers should base their future around.
The Lakers owner recently opened up about LeBron James’s future with the team. For the Mavericks, the 25-year-old guard has developed into a genuine star. In just six years, Doncic has established himself as one of the greatest players in the game and a deserving face for his team.
Is Luka Doncic Worthy Enough To Lead The Franchise After LeBron James?
Regretfully, Doncic is currently unavailable for the Lakers. He just returned from the Finals and is bound to a three-year, $136 million contract. However, if he opts out and becomes a free agent, he can only depart in 2026.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NBA stories via Google! Follow Us
Rob Pelinka’s best chance is for things to become ugly with the Mavericks and for Luka to push his way out. The Lakers might present a firm offer when the time comes since they have several draft picks stashed away and some reliable role players to deal with.
However, if Luka doesn’t make it happen, the Lakers could be better suited to searching elsewhere for their future superstar. The Lakers are widely regarded as the club that attracts the greatest players and have never had trouble bringing in elite players. This pattern should continue long after LeBron plays his last game.
The Lakers will do everything they can to extend LeBron’s career as much as possible throughout the next two seasons. In the background, they will also be making plans for the future. The first identifies the next big star who will pave the path to success.
Also Read: Lakers Owner Jeanie Buss Drops Truth Bomb On LeBron James Being The Highest Paid Player In The Team
