Luka Doncic Draws ‘Illusionist’ Comparison From Lakers GM Rob Pelinka
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LOS ANGELES — Lakers president of basketball operations and general manager Rob Pelinka says watching Luka Doncic in person feels like attending a magic show.
“I liken his skills to that of an illusionist,” Pelinka told The Wall Street Journal. “You almost have to be at the game to understand the magnitude of what Luka can do on the court. There are always many ‘Did that just happen?’ moments.”
Pelinka spoke after a press conference on Aug. 2, 2025, at the UCLA Health Training Center, where the organization announced a three-year contract extension for the Slovenian guard. Doncic and Pelinka posed with a new Lakers jersey as part of the event.
Now entering his first full season in purple and gold, the 26-year-old superstar is widely regarded as one of the NBA’s most creative playmakers. His combination of deep shooting range, deceptive ball-handling and precise court vision routinely produces highlights that leave teammates, opponents and spectators stunned.
Doncic joined Los Angeles in a trade last season, giving the Lakers only a brief look at his repertoire before the playoffs. With a full offseason to integrate into Darvin Ham’s system, the four-time All-NBA selection is expected to shoulder a larger role alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
James has echoed Pelinka’s praise, recently describing Doncic as a “savant” whose basketball IQ sets him apart. Despite lacking elite speed or vertical explosion, Doncic’s ability to control tempo and manipulate defenders has made him one of the league’s most difficult assignments.
Pelinka, a former standout at the University of Michigan, said even his own playing experience leaves him unprepared for some of Doncic’s on-court sleight of hand. “You think you’ve seen everything,” he said, “and then Luka makes a pass you can’t explain.”
Source: Lakers Nation
