Apr 9, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) makes a layup past forward LeBron James (23) during the first quarter against the Dallas Mavericks at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Lakers Insider Provides Key Update on LeBron James, Luka Doncic Relationship

Originally posted on Los Angeles Lakers on SI
By Ricardo Klein | Last updated Aug 22, 2025 3:30 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers have had themselves quite the offseason. They didn't endure as many changes as many hoped or expected, but nevertheless, their two superstars were at the forefront of the offseason, Luka Doncic and LeBron James.

More news: Lakers Star Seen as 'Surefire' First Trade Chip in Possible Giannis Antetokounmpo Deal

James and Doncic were in the spotlight, like they usually are, but for different reasons.

James' summer revolved around whether or not he would be with the Lakers by the start of the season. As for Doncic, it was whether he'd re-sign with the Lakers for four years or three (it happened to be three years).

Nonetheless, the two were at the forefront. They are the two best players for the purple and gold, and like the good leaders they are, they were in constant communication this summer, according to Lakers insider Anthony Irwin of Clutch Points.

Irwin stated how sources close to him said that James and Doncic have 'maintained communication' this summer.

"Speaking of James, sources close to the team reiterated recently that he and Doncic have maintained communication dating back to the onset of the summer with the focus being how they can make each other better. Rampant speculation about James' future aside, both superstar s are looking forward to playing together again next season."

More news: Rob Pelinka Sees Shades of All Defensive Forward in LA Rookie

The two were only teammates for a little less than three months, and only played 23 games together.

Doncic and James did not have the proper time to gel together. What makes things a bit more complicated is that their play style is a bit similar. The two have often been compared to each other, and that has been evident since Doncic made his debut in the league back in 2018.

The Lakers are led by Doncic and James. They will only go as far as the two can take them, but they cannot do it alone.

More news: Lakers’ Luka Doncic Puts On a Show in EuroBasket Following Injury Scare

However, if they are both on the same page, the Lakers can make some noise in the loaded Western Conference. Doncic and James are both unselfish players, and while they already have a vision for how things should come together, the coaching staff — led by JJ Redick—will play a major part in making it all work.