Charles Barkley Says Lakers Now Belong to Luka Doncic
charles-barkley-says-lakers-now-belong-to-luka-doncic
NBA Hall of Famer and television analyst Charles Barkley believes the Los Angeles Lakers have officially shifted their focus to Luka Doncic. Speaking on “The Better Angle,” Barkley said the franchise is already operating as if the 26-year-old guard is its primary figure.
“It’s already probably Luka’s team now,” Barkley said. “You don’t trade for Luka Doncic, give him all that money, and it’s not his team.”
The comment underscores a transitional moment in Los Angeles. For the first time in LeBron James’s career, the roster is not built entirely around him. James, who turned 40 this season, has not committed to playing beyond 2025, while Doncic recently signed a long-term extension that keeps him under contract for several years.
General manager Rob Pelinka is tasked with adding pieces that help the Lakers contend now and in the future. James remains an All-NBA performer, but the organization is prioritizing Doncic’s timeline as it plans upcoming roster moves.
Barkley Notes Four-Year Drought
Barkley also pointed to the team’s recent postseason record. “Even though [James has] been putting up good numbers, they haven’t been successful in probably four years,” he said, reiterating that a new direction is necessary.
Fitness Still a Focus for Doncic
Lakers assistant coach Greg St. Jean echoed the organization’s long-term approach, explaining that Doncic’s conditioning remains a “work in progress.” After dealing with a lingering calf injury last season, the Slovenian star spent the summer improving his fitness, which the team believes will continue to evolve.
The Lakers will have another opportunity to adjust the roster before the trade deadline as they attempt to maximize the championship window for both Doncic and James.
Source: LakersNation.com
