Los Angeles Lakers executive vice president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka praised Luka Doncic for his leadership and authenticity during a Thursday press conference held at the UCLA Health Training Center. The session, staged alongside head coach JJ Redick, served as the club’s unofficial kickoff to training camp ahead of next week’s Media Day.
Doncic, entering his first full NBA season in Los Angeles, recently returned from EuroBasket after a summer in which he was widely regarded as the tournament’s top performer. Pelinka, who visited the Slovenian national team in Poland during the event, said the guard’s influence on teammates was striking.
“Seeing how he not only led by example but also used his voice in practice—the expectations he set, the emphasis on togetherness—really stood out,” Pelinka told reporters. “That continued evolution as both a vocal and example-driven leader is something we believe will carry into camp.”
The 26-year-old star, acquired in an unexpected trade last season, also earned Pelinka’s admiration for the way he handled the transition. “The word that stands out most is genuine,” Pelinka said. “He embraced everyone here from day one despite the initial shock. When people feel they truly know your heart, that’s a powerful leadership quality.”
Doncic’s commitment to the Lakers was underscored on Aug. 2, 2025, when he and Pelinka appeared together at the training center to announce a three-year contract extension. With the franchise eyeing a return to the NBA Finals, the All-NBA guard is expected to shoulder an MVP-caliber workload.
Pelinka added that roster flexibility remains a priority under the league’s new collective bargaining agreement. After relying on buyout additions during the offseason, the Lakers still hold a tradable first-round pick and multiple expiring contracts, giving the front office options leading up to the February trade deadline.
Source: Lakers Nation
