The inaugural season of the LeBron James and Luka Dončić Lakers partnership concluded with disappointment as the team fell to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the playoffs. Despite the early exit in 2024, the Los Angeles Lakers maintain a bright outlook with Dončić now wearing the purple and gold.

Dončić’s arrival to the Lakers came as a surprise, having been traded mid-season from the Dallas Mavericks, where he led the franchise to the NBA Finals earlier that year. The transition was a significant shift for the young Slovenian superstar, but teaming up with James, whom Dončić admired growing up, eased the adjustment considerably.

Dončić’s View on Playing Alongside a Legend

Reflecting on the experience, Dončić shared candid thoughts during the Mind the Game podcast with James and Steve Nash, highlighting how unique it has been to play with James.

It’s great, I’ve never played with a guy like this,

Dončić said.

Being traded to L.A., it was different, but to be able to play with guys like him, it’s unbelievable. I can learn so much stuff, first of all off the court, all the things he does to be ready for the game. And obviously on the court everybody knows what kind of player he is.

Beyond James’s elite skills during games, Dončić noted a key difference in his approach to preparation.

First of all he shows up like 10 hours before the game,

Dončić remarked.

That was really the main thing, like I was like, ‘What?’ I came to the arena and he was already done working out.

James’ Enduring Dedication and Dončić’s Impact on the Team

James’s rigorous work ethic has allowed him to sustain a high level of play across his 22-year NBA career. His commitment to maintaining peak performance serves as an example for Dončić and the entire Lakers roster.

In turn, James expressed deep respect for Dončić’s ability to control the game’s tempo and create opportunities, regardless of defensive pressure.

It’s always his pace, and it’s always been his pace,

James explained.

He moves at his own pace, and he’s never been on the floor where he’s allowed someone to dictate where they’re going to put him on the floor. It’s always been the opposite, and for us, we’re all working off that. We just have to stay ready.

James also praised Dončić’s exceptional passing skills, emphasizing how it challenges opponents.

Obviously we’ve seen throughout his career there’s plays and passes that only certain guys in the league history have ever been able to make, and for us we just all have to make sure we continue to stay ready,

James said.

Especially when you go against handsy teams, athletic teams and teams that try to speed you up. We always have to keep our head on a swivel, because you just never know when the ball may find you, and that’s a good thing. That’s keeping the defense off balance, and that’s a great thing to have that.

The Chemistry and Future Potential of the Lakers Duo

The chemistry between James and Dončić developed quickly after the 26-year-old’s mid-season addition to the roster. With Dončić joining forces with James, the Lakers surged in the Western Conference, finishing the regular season with a 50-32 record and securing the third seed in the playoffs.

Although the Timberwolves ended their championship aspirations, the experience offered a clear glimpse of the potential that Dončić brings to Los Angeles in the seasons ahead. James may be nearing the final chapter of his career, but the knowledge he imparts to Dončić ensures the Lakers’ future remains in capable hands.

Throughout the season, Dončić appeared to appreciate the demanding routine James follows to stay at his best, a habit that could positively influence Dončić’s development as he continues to grow into his role with the Lakers.

The Lakers’ unfolding partnership promises an exciting journey, as the blend of James’s veteran leadership and Dončić’s dynamic talent sets a foundation that could dominate the league for years to come.