Doncic takes charge: Lakers seek wins without LeBron James

Doncic Faces Challenge Without LeBron James: “Next Man Up” Mentality

Amid LeBron James’ recovery from sciatica, Luka Doncic assumes a key role in the Lakers. The Slovenian star, however, does not feel the pressure of having to do more in James’ absence.

“I don’t see it that way. I just want to play basketball. If I do less, if I do more, whatever is needed to get a win.”

Luka Doncic

The Lakers, without James and Doncic, have yet to achieve a win in the preseason, with losses against the Phoenix Suns and the Golden State Warriors. The team prepares for a matchup against the Warriors, followed by games against the Suns and the Dallas Mavericks. Doncic has fully participated in training, after having managed his workload to avoid wear and tear after his participation in the EuroBasket.

“I had the national team. I played a month or so of basketball. Obviously, there’s a long season ahead, so that’s why.”

Luka Doncic

Lakers coach JJ Redick faces the challenge of covering for the absence of James, who will be out for several weeks.

“We hope he returns soon. Those things can be complicated. It’s not clear what the starting lineup will be, that’s the reality, until he returns. We’ll have to figure it out.”

JJ Redick

Doncic, along with Austin Reaves and Deandre Ayton, will be part of the starting lineup. Redick will evaluate the other two starting positions, considering Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jake LaRavia, and Marcus Smart. Smart, who was also out at the beginning of the preseason, will play against the Warriors. Redick has considered having a lineup and rotation that better fits when James is present and another when he is not. Doncic and James have been in contact during training, which has contributed to the team’s chemistry. While James recovers, his voice will be an asset from the bench.

“It’s a big change. He’s a great player. He can help us a lot. But at the end of the day, our mentality has to be ‘next man up.’ We have a group of guys who have been practicing and we hope LeBron can join us as soon as possible. Obviously, we’re going to need him. But our mentality has to be ‘next man up.’ That’s it.”

Luka Doncic