Lakers re-evaluate roster plans after Doncic’s EuroBasket surge
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The Los Angeles Lakers are re-examining potential trade options in the wake of Luka Doncic’s standout performance at EuroBasket, The Athletic’s Dan Woike reported.
Doncic, who agreed to a three-year, $165 million extension with the Lakers earlier this summer, led Slovenia to the tournament quarterfinals while averaging 34.7 points and converting more than 62 percent of his two-point attempts. Team executives believe the guard’s leaner frame and increased quickness could accelerate the franchise’s championship timetable, according to the report.
One name now under consideration is Miami forward Andrew Wiggins, a player the Lakers had not seriously pursued two months ago. Los Angeles is reluctant to move its lone future first-round pick but could assemble offers built around expiring contracts and rookie guard Dalton Knecht if an appealing deal emerges.
Doncic’s EuroBasket showing also impressed Lakers coaches, who noted his improved defense and stronger play in the paint. Team officials hope those gains translate into a push from playoff contender to legitimate title threat once the NBA season begins.
Source: Hoops Wire
