The first wave of NBA 2K26 player ratings is out, and Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic debuts with a 95 overall score, the fourth-highest mark in this year’s edition of the video-game series.
The ranking, released Thursday by the NBA 2K social-media team, places Doncic behind only Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (both 98) and Giannis Antetokounmpo (97). The Slovenian star is tied with Anthony Edwards at 95 and sits ahead of Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Jayson Tatum, and Victor Wembanyama (all 94) as well as Kevin Durant (93).
Doncic and James are the only teammates appearing inside the game’s top 10. Third on the Lakers’ roster is Austin Reaves, who opens the cycle at 85 overall.
Improved Fitness and Recent Play
The 26-year-old guard spent the offseason reshaping his body, unveiling a trimmer frame during a Jordan Brand tour and in a feature for Men’s Health. He has since carried that conditioning into Slovenia’s EuroBasket 25 warm-up schedule, most recently posting 28 points, six rebounds, and 10 assists in a win over Great Britain.
Context for the Rating
While Doncic enjoys a place among the game’s elite, the 95 grade reflects a 2024-25 campaign interrupted by a calf injury that sidelined him for nearly two months shortly after his move from the Dallas Mavericks to Los Angeles. Although he eventually regained form, the extended absence limited his impact compared with previous seasons.
An early jump in his rating remains possible. With training camp approaching, Lakers assistant coach Greg St. Jean said he is eager to watch Doncic and James establish chemistry as the team aims to contend in 2025-26. The guard also enters the year as an early Most Valuable Player favorite, adding another layer of motivation to his first full season in purple and gold.
Source: LakersNation.com
