Jeanie Buss Comments Publicly for the First Time Since Lakers’ Deal for Luka Doncic

Los Angeles Lakers governor Jeanie Buss and general manager Rob Pelinka have faced considerable criticism from both the media and fans about their decisions in recent years. However, that scrutiny seemed to fade when Pelinka orchestrated a major trade for Luka Doncic, and Buss had to make the difficult choice to approve it.

The tough decision came in the form of parting ways with Anthony Davis, who helped secure a championship for the Lakers in his first season (2019-20). But when the Dallas Mavericks presented the chance to acquire a 25-year-old superstar like Doncic, the Lakers couldn’t turn it down.

Doncic is among the NBA’s brightest young talents and is seen as the future face of the Lakers once LeBron James decides to retire. This move has energized the organization, and Buss shared her excitement in a conversation with Entertainment Tonight:

“Luka [Doncic] is an incredibly special player, and we’re thrilled to have him join the Lakers. However, we had to give up a lot to get him. We’ll miss Anthony Davis and Max Christie, but you always try to improve the team, make it better, and ultimately win a championship.”

Though the trade occurred over a week ago, the initial surprise still lingers. Doncic has played two games with the team, progressively improving from his debut to the second game.

Head coach JJ Redick now faces the challenge of blending Doncic with LeBron James and Austin Reaves, a challenge that is more exciting than problematic given the unselfish nature of all three players, who prioritize winning above all else.

Unfortunately, the failed Mark Williams trade impacted the Lakers’ prospects for this season. However, with a five-time All-NBA player on the roster and solid guards and forwards, their chances should not be dismissed.

Luka Doncic Praises JJ Redick as a ‘Great’ Coach

Luka Doncic has a prior relationship with Lakers head coach JJ Redick, having briefly been teammates in Dallas. Though Redick is in his first season as an NBA head coach, Doncic remarked that it feels as though Redick has been coaching for years.

“He’s a great coach. I know it’s his first year, but it doesn’t feel like it,” Doncic said recently. “It feels like he’s been here for 15 years. Props to him, and I’m excited to be coached more by him.”

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