On the May 1 episode of the Club 520 podcast, former NBA player Jeff Teague sharply criticized Luka Doncic for his defensive weaknesses, following the LA Lakers’ elimination by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first playoff round in five games. Teague focused on Doncic’s inability to stop opponents, which contributed to the Lakers’ early exit.
Teague expressed frustration with the Slovenian star’s defensive efforts during postseason play, questioning his commitment on that side of the floor.
“I hate watching Luka play now, man,” Teague said (3:30). “It’s so bad (Doncic’s defense) bro. Everybody isoing you. I wasn’t even a defender and not everybody iso me.”
The criticism was rooted in how Minnesota took advantage of Luka’s poor defense, repeatedly isolating him with players like Julius Randle, who scored consistently in one-on-one matchups. Despite contributing heavily on offense, Luka was unable to adjust defensively to the Wolves’ strategy, which exploited his vulnerabilities.
Teague even argued that former Phoenix Suns guard Isaiah Thomas, standing just 5-foot-9, would provide a tougher defensive challenge than Doncic.
“Bro his defense so bad that I can’t even appreciate his offense,” Teague added. “When little Isaiah Thomas was killing, n****s just try to go at him, but he would put up a stand. … this n**** not even trying.” (7:53)
During the playoffs, Luka Doncic averaged an impressive 30.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game across five contests; however, his defensive stats were less encouraging, recording only five steals and three blocks while turning the ball over four times per game. His overall impact on defense was reflected in a minus-24 plus-minus rating, indicating the team struggled when he was on the court.
In response, the Lakers made notable offseason moves, most importantly acquiring center Deandre Ayton to bolster the frontcourt. Nonetheless, the team’s postseason success could hinge on Luka enhancing his defensive capabilities.
Teague Questions Whether Deandre Ayton Can Fully Support Doncic’s Championship Aspirations
On July 3, during another Club 520 podcast episode, Jeff Teague discussed the Lakers’ addition of Deandre Ayton and voiced skepticism about the signing’s ability to fill the team’s defensive gaps, particularly those affecting Luka Doncic’s effectiveness.
“Do I love it? No,” Teague said (1:20). “I don’t think Deandre Ayton fits them. Luka needs a lob threat.”
Teague acknowledged that Ayton brings dunking ability to the Lakers but argued that he doesn’t dominate above the rim in the way the team requires. Since Luka excels at setting up big men for lobs, lacking a true aerial threat could limit the Lakers’ offensive flow and overall postseason potential.
Despite these concerns, Teague remains cautiously optimistic, recognizing that the Lakers secured third place in the Western Conference last season without a top-tier center, which suggests the team can remain competitive as Luka and Ayton work to improve their coordination.
Implications for the Lakers’ Season and Luka Doncic’s Defensive Improvement
Luka Doncic’s defensive struggles have become a focal point for analysts and former players like Jeff Teague, emphasizing the necessity for the guard to improve if the Lakers hope to advance deeper into the playoffs. With the team’s recent roster changes, the pressure mounts on Luka to elevate his all-around game, balancing his offensive dominance with more consistent defensive effort.
The Lakers’ offseason moves, including the acquisition of Deandre Ayton, aim to address some structural issues, but without Luka’s defensive growth, the path to a championship remains challenging. How Doncic adapts and responds to the critiques will significantly influence the Lakers’ prospects in the upcoming season.
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