WASHINGTON, D.C. — As the Los Angeles Lakers move past the midpoint of the 2025-26 NBA season, LeBron James says his immediate priority is winning a championship alongside newly acquired star Luka Doncic, even as questions persist about his own future.
During the Lakers’ Jan. 30 game against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena, the 41-year-old forward described his partnership with Doncic as both productive and personally rewarding.
James focused on mentorship
“Just trying to lead by example, showing him the way, using my voice, using my example, using everything I can,” James told The California Post. “He’s now. It’s not like he’s next. He’s right now. I just love the kid. I love everything about him. I just want him to take his journey as far as he wants to go. And I’m happy to be a small part of his journey.”
Since Doncic’s arrival in Los Angeles, the two ball-dominant playmakers have developed a pick-and-roll chemistry that has boosted the Lakers’ offense. James said he hopes his experience can prepare the 26-year-old Slovenian guard to eventually assume the role of franchise cornerstone.
Doncic aiming for first title
Doncic, who came within two wins of a championship in 2024, is seeking his first NBA ring. The Lakers, owners of 17 league titles, have historically relied on generational talents to guide the organization through new eras, and James believes Doncic is positioned to continue that lineage.
Retirement talk on hold
Speculation about James’s potential retirement heightened after his recent visit to Cleveland, but the four-time champion said he has not decided when he will end his career and is not contemplating a farewell tour. Now in his 23rd season and already the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, he remains committed to the current campaign.
Source: LakersNation.com
