Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic offered an unvarnished assessment of the Los Angeles Lakers during a recent offseason exchange with LeBron James, saying, “We ain’t close,” according to a report published Thursday.
The New York Post story, dated June 20, 2026, states that Doncic shared his view of the Lakers’ current situation directly with the four-time NBA champion. The report does not provide additional context about when or where the conversation occurred, nor does it detail James’ response.
Los Angeles enters the summer looking to reshape its roster after a disappointing finish last season. Doncic’s comment highlights the widespread perception that significant moves may be necessary for the Lakers to return to title contention.
Neither the Lakers nor the Mavericks have publicly addressed the reported conversation. James and Doncic have not issued statements.
Source: New York Post
