Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James labeled backcourt partner Luka Doncic a “big-time savant of the game” during an interview with Jason Gay of The Wall Street Journal. The comment was published shortly after Doncic finalized a new contract extension, underscoring the high regard the 21-season veteran holds for his 26-year-old teammate.
James, 40, spoke while wrapping up an offseason vacation and praised Doncic’s ability to process the sport at an elite level. “I always use IQ as a measuring point in basketball—guys who can think the game,” James said. “There are so many guys in our league who can play the game, but to be able to think the game as well puts you at another level.”
Doncic, who joined Los Angeles in a blockbuster trade last year, lacks James’s trademark athleticism but has gained a reputation for reading defenses in advance, creating open looks for himself and teammates. The pair gives the Lakers one of the league’s most formidable duos heading into the 2025-26 campaign.
The Slovenian guard said earlier this summer that he expects to expand his leadership role during preseason workouts. Head coach Darvin Ham has indicated the team will lean on Doncic’s playmaking as James enters his 22nd NBA season.
The Lakers open training camp in late September before hosting their first preseason game at Crypto.com Arena.
Source: Lakers Nation
