Luka Doncic has officially started the next phase of his career, now wearing the Lakers’ iconic purple and gold. After a high-profile midseason trade from Dallas, the basketball world is eager to see how Doncic will shape the Lakers’ future, especially as the 2025-26 season marks his true debut as the team’s central figure.
Entering the season with renewed focus and physical conditioning, Doncic is motivated by a desire to prove his worth after the trade. The Lakers, reshaping their roster around his abilities, present a massive opportunity for Doncic to take control in a franchise transitioning from LeBron James‘ era. Expectations are high, and analysts have made bold predictions about his potential impact.
Expectations of an MVP-Caliber Season for Doncic
Doncic has long been recognized as a player capable of MVP-level performances, but this season seems ripe for him to dominate the conversation. With LeBron James moving into a smaller role and a roster tailored to Doncic’s playing style, he will handle the ball more often, which could lead to increased statistics and more clutch moments on a bigger stage.
Last season, Doncic averaged 28.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game, though conditioning concerns and team dynamics may have limited his effectiveness. Now, with a leaner physique and a revitalized mindset, Doncic is set to mount a serious MVP campaign. The main challenges could be voter fatigue or outstanding seasons from rivals like Nikola Jokic or Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Potential to Join the Elite Triple-Double Club
Taking full command of the Lakers’ offense, Doncic has a realistic shot at averaging a triple-double for the first time in his career. Throughout his career, his averages have hovered near those numbers—28.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game—but he has yet to sustain those marks over a full season.
The 2025-26 season may change that trajectory. With better conditioning, a system built around his talents, and more reliable shooters surrounding him, Doncic could raise his assist and rebound numbers without sacrificing scoring output. Achieving this would make him the first Laker ever to accomplish a triple-double average for a season and place him alongside legends like Russell Westbrook and Oscar Robertson, who have done it multiple times.
Leading the Lakers Deep Into the Playoffs
Despite last season’s hurdles, including injuries and chemistry problems, the Lakers finished third in the Western Conference. With a full offseason to build cohesion, a healthy Doncic, and rim protection from a defensive presence such as Ayton, the team is poised for a significant playoff run.
The Lakers also benefit from veteran leadership, including Marcus Smart and LeBron James, along with coach JJ Redick’s strategic insights into modern spacing and pace of play. Though the Western Conference remains competitive with teams like Denver, OKC, the Clippers, and Warriors, some of these rivals are dealing with challenges of their own, such as aging rosters. If Doncic remains focused and the Lakers maintain health, reaching the Western Conference Finals seems well within reach and would solidify the team’s growing status.
A Pivotal Season Could Redefine Luka Doncic’s Legacy
A successful 2025-26 campaign could dramatically shift the Lakers’ direction and Doncic’s career arc. After years marked by highs and playoff disappointments, Los Angeles now has a young cornerstone prepared to take the reins as LeBron’s era winds down. The stakes are high, and with the right collective support, this season could be the start of an enduring legacy for Luka in purple and gold, making it perhaps the defining chapter of his <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA journey.
Luka Doncic Responds to Previous Fitness Criticism
Amid the build-up to this season, Luka has addressed critics who questioned his conditioning during his time in Dallas. He stated,
“I was still a pretty good player.”
—Luka Doncic, NBA Player