Lakers can't repeat LeBron James-era mistakes with Luka Doncic

James’ time with the Lakers has been a rollercoaster. The 2020 championship team was built on balance, surrounding two superstars with defensive-minded role players such as Alex Caruso, Danny Green and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. Yet within a year, that core was dismantled.

Ill-fitting acquisitions, most notably Russell Westbrook, eroded the team’s cohesion. Annual roster overhauls, an impatience for superstar trades and the tendency to yield too much influence to star players left the franchise oscillating between contention and mediocrity.

Doncic’s arrival offers a fresh start and, for general manager Rob Pelinka, something of a lifeline as pressure has mounted. But the risks are familiar.

Like James, Doncic is an elite playmaker who thrives with shooters and rim runners. Granting him unchecked input on personnel decisions could lead to the same mismatched signings that have undermined much of the James era.

The front office must set the vision and stick to it, prioritizing fit, chemistry and continuity, even if that means passing on big-name trades that could cost the Lakers more practical roster upgrades.

Early signs point toward a more disciplined approach. Pelinka has already added smart complementary pieces, including Deandre Ayton to anchor the paint, Marcus Smart to fortify perimeter defense and Jake LaRavia as a floor-spacer. 

Additionally, the Doncic trade itself was conducted under strict secrecy, a deliberate change from the damaging leaks that plagued past negotiations.

Roster stability will be critical. After their 2020 title, the Lakers failed to retain key contributors, opting instead for headline-driven moves. With Doncic, they must resist the urge for constant change and allow the roster to develop together.

There’s also the matter of leadership transition. James' reportedly strained relationship with the front office, including reportedly not being consulted on major moves, highlights the need for clear communication. Doncic may now be the face of the franchise, but that role requires a coherent, long-term plan.

If the Lakers can pair Doncic’s generational talent with stability, patience and roster continuity, they could build a contender built to last. Fail to do so, and history risks repeating itself.