LeBron James Reflects on Lakers’ Bold Trade and Future Partnership with Luka Dončić
INGLEWOOD, Calif. – LeBron James has long been known for his ability to adapt to any situation, but even he had to take a moment to process the Los Angeles Lakers’ latest franchise-altering move. The trade that sent Anthony Davis—a player James has called his “brother” and championship co-star—along with young talent Max Christie and a coveted 2029 first-round draft pick to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Luka Dončić, veteran forward Maxi Kleber, and former Laker Markieff Morris was one of the most shocking transactions in recent NBA history.
While some questioned whether James was concerned about the Lakers prioritizing their long-term future over their immediate championship aspirations, the four-time NBA champion remained unwavering in his response.
“What’s wrong with that?” James stated emphatically after leading the Lakers to a dominant 122-97 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers. “If I had concerns, I would’ve waived my no-trade clause and got up out of here.”
James, who signed a two-year, $104 million contract extension last summer that included a no-trade clause, reiterated his commitment to finishing his career with the Lakers. Despite the emotional toll of losing Davis, he remains focused on integrating Dončić into the team and maintaining the Lakers’ championship aspirations.
Processing the Trade and Saying Goodbye to a Brother
James’ deep bond with Davis was evident as he reflected on their time together. Since arriving in Los Angeles in 2019, Davis and James formed one of the league’s most dominant duos, leading the Lakers to a title in 2020 and making deep playoff runs. Their connection extended beyond the court, with their families growing close and attending personal events like Davis’ wedding.
The abrupt end to that partnership was jarring for James, who was at a family dinner when he first heard about the trade. Initially dismissing it as a hoax, reality set in when Davis reached out to him on FaceTime.
“I thought it was, for sure, fake,” James admitted. “I thought it was a hoax, people messing around or whatever.”
Although James declined to reveal the details of their private conversation, he acknowledged the trade was difficult to digest. After years of ups and downs together—including championship triumphs and frustrating injuries—parting ways was not something he had anticipated.
A Generational Talent Joins Forces with Another
While the Lakers sacrificed a proven All-Star in Davis, they gained a 25-year-old superstar in Dončić, who had just led the Mavericks to their first NBA Finals appearance in over a decade. The Slovenian guard, known for his elite playmaking, scoring, and basketball IQ, now finds himself in a Lakers uniform alongside one of his childhood idols.
James, who has often spoken highly of Dončić, expressed excitement about their upcoming partnership.
“Luka’s been my favorite player in the NBA for a while now,” James said. “I’ve always just tried to play the game the right way and inspire the next generation. And Luka happens to be one of them. And now we’re teammates. So it’ll be a very seamless transition.”
Dončić, sidelined with a left calf injury, watched from the Lakers’ bench during Tuesday’s game. His presence signified the dawn of a new era in Los Angeles, one where he and James will look to create a dynamic partnership that could rival the league’s best.
Can LeBron and Luka Coexist?
Skeptics have raised concerns about whether James and Dončić can share the ball effectively. Similar worries surfaced when the Lakers acquired Russell Westbrook in 2021, a move that ultimately failed due to Westbrook’s inconsistent fit within the team’s offensive scheme. However, those close to James believe this time will be different.
Clippers coach Tyronn Lue, who coached James to a championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers, dismissed any doubts about their ability to work together.
“It’ll work when you have LeBron James, who has been the best player in the league for the last 15 years, and you have Luka, who is a top-three, top-five player in the league,” Lue said. “They’ll figure out how to make it work.”
Lue pointed to James’ previous partnership with Kyrie Irving, which resulted in an NBA championship and four consecutive Finals appearances, as evidence that James thrives alongside another elite ball-handler. The same dynamic could develop between James and Dončić, with both players possessing high basketball intelligence and the ability to create for themselves and their teammates.
Lakers coach JJ Redick echoed this sentiment, expressing confidence in their ability to blend their talents.
“Two guys who have a high level of basketball intelligence—that’s the key,” Redick explained. “Whether it’s playing a two-man game, a three-man game, or playing minutes without each other, they’re going to be productive and excel.”
The Road Ahead for the New-Look Lakers
As the Lakers push toward the postseason, the integration of Dončić will be a top priority. The young star is expected to participate in a team film session on Wednesday and ramp up his on-court work with five-on-five drills. His Lakers debut could come as soon as Thursday against the Golden State Warriors or Saturday against the Indiana Pacers.
For James, the focus remains on winning. At 40 years old, he continues to defy Father Time, averaging at an elite level in his 22nd NBA season. His 26-point, nine-assist, eight-rebound performance against the Clippers was another reminder of his enduring greatness.
The transition to playing alongside Dončić may come with some adjustments, but James is confident that their partnership will thrive.
“Whatever we want it to be. It won’t take long,” James said. “I can play with anybody, and I think he can as well. So we’ll work well together.”
With a renewed sense of purpose and a new star beside him, James embarks on yet another chapter in his storied career, aiming to guide the Lakers to another championship while shaping the future of the franchise with Dončić.
