"We have a long year ahead of us": Doncic, following LeBron's injury on the Lakers
The Slovenian will take on the leadership in the absence of his teammate in the first month of the NBA.
The 2025/26 season of the NBA is almost ready to begin. The Los Angeles Lakers already know they will have to compete without LeBron James for at least the first month of the Regular Season due to a sciatica issue that has sidelined him since July. As a result, Luka Doncic will have to take on the leadership role in the Angelina franchise, although he doesn't see it that way.
Far from pointing fingers, the Slovenian star made it clear that his priority remains the same: to win as a team, not to shine individually. "I don't see it that way," Doncic declared after Saturday's practice. "I just want to play basketball. Whether I do less or more, whatever it takes to win."
The Angelina team, currently with a 0-2 record in the preseason without LeBron or Doncic, has suffered defeats against the Phoenix Suns and the Golden State Warriors. However, there is no alarm within the locker room. The primary focus is to prepare for a long and demanding season, not to seek immediate results.
The coach, JJ Redick, confirmed that Doncic is still not guaranteed to play in the rematch against the Warriors on Sunday. The team's medical plan is clear: two appearances in the remaining four preseason games to manage his workload after a strenuous summer.
Aftereffects of the EuroBasket?
Doncic just finished representing Slovenia in the EuroBasket, a competition that kept him active for over a month and, according to the player himself, requires meticulous planning. "Playing for the national team is always an honor, but also a physical burden. We have a long season ahead, and I have to take care of my body," he explained.
On Saturday, for the first time in several days, Doncic completed practice without limitations, participating in all contact drills. His performance was solid, and the coaching staff saw him in good shape, although Redick emphasized that "there's no need to rush things in October."
Meanwhile, Redick continues to search for the ideal starting lineup. Three positions are set: Doncic, Austin Reaves, and Deandre Ayton. However, the other two spots remain open.
Rui Hachimura, who started in 57 out of 59 games last season, is one of the favorites. Jarred Vanderbilt, on the other hand, has started in the first two preseason games and is in his best physical condition since the 2023 Western Conference Finals.
On the bench, newcomers Jake LaRavia and Marcus Smart are also competing for significant roles. Redick confirmed that Smart — recently sidelined due to Achilles tendinopathy — will return against Golden State.
"It's a big change to play without LeBron," Doncic admitted. "We all know what he means to this team, on and off the court. But the mindset has to remain the same: the next player. We have to keep competing."
This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, "Nos espera un año largo": Doncic, tras la lesión de LeBron en los Lakers
