Lakers News: JJ Redick Confident LeBron James & Luka Doncic Will Be Strong Partners

LeBron James, Luka Doncic, Lakers

INGLEWOOD, CA – FEBRUARY 4: LeBron James #23 and Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers observe the game against the LA Clippers on February 4, 2025 at Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, California.

The NBA world was rocked when the Los Angeles Lakers pulled off what could be the biggest trade in league history, trading Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Luka Doncic, Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris.

The announcement was met with shock and disbelief, and rightly so, as a 25-year-old superstar like Doncic was traded without prior rumors. Even Doncic admitted that he was taken aback by the trade but expressed his excitement for the new chapter in his career. Rob Pelinka, the Lakers’ vice president of basketball operations and general manager, deserves much credit for keeping the deal under wraps, as any leaks could have derailed it.

The Lakers have traditionally been built around star players, and with Doncic joining the team, they now have a young star to carry the franchise once LeBron James retires. However, the two will share the court at least for the rest of the 2024-25 season when Doncic returns from his calf injury.

Before the Lakers faced the LA Clippers, head coach JJ Redick spoke about his belief in the partnership between Doncic and James.

“You have two players with elite basketball IQs, and I’m confident that whether it’s a two-man game, a three-man game, or playing without each other for stretches… they’ll be effective. They’re going to thrive. Both of them have a competitive mindset, and that’s exciting,” Redick stated.

Given the high basketball IQ and unselfishness of both Doncic and James, there should be little doubt about their ability to play together. Both players thrive with the ball in their hands, but their playmaking and scoring abilities should ease any concerns.

There are few instances in NBA history of two superstar ball handlers like Doncic and James teaming up, so anticipation for Doncic’s debut with the Lakers is high. Although Doncic is still recovering from a calf injury, reports suggest he will make his debut sooner than expected, giving fans something to eagerly await.

Luka Doncic Sets His Sights on Winning Championships with the Lakers

Luka Doncic was reportedly traded due to concerns over his conditioning and other matters with the Mavericks. However, now that he’s joined the Lakers, Doncic has stated his primary goal is to secure championships with the historic franchise.