Luka Doncic Addresses JJ Redick’s Concern After Jeanie Buss Makes Expectations Clear

She continued, “I can’t think of a better representation of Laker basketball than Luka and what he brings to the game. To see it in a different context, a European tournament, it just feels very similar to Kobe or LeBron in the Olympics or Magic Johnson with the Dream Team.”

Well, Luka Doncic arrives with a transformed mindset, a sculpted body, and a fresh appreciation for his new team. This opportunity lets him prove his former doubters wrong, showcase the fruits of relentless offseason work, and amplify his superstar status. With the LA Lakers’ stage awaiting, every sacrifice and effort point toward a season that could redefine his career and their championship hopes.

However, there is something that Doncic needs to be for the Purple and Gold. And that is to show up at the leader. Earlier this year, when the Lakers suffered a 111-108 loss against the Brooklyn Nets, JJ Redick was furious. “Just throw the ball to the guy, and you play four on three,” Redick addressed the struggles of team leaders. “It was a very low-level communication game for our team. I don’t think being short-handed is an excuse for how we played basketball tonight.” 

Looking ahead into the future, maybe, just maybe, the 26-year-old Slovenian has given JJ Redick the solution. Besides, Doncic is emerging as one of the most vocal players in the league and escalating his skills to new heights. So, yes, leadership is just another badge he is seemingly ready to put on this 2025-26 NBA season.

Luka Doncic’s take on leadership will put JJ Redick’s doubts to rest

Doncic realized that elevating his teams now requires more than skill—it demands his voice, stepping up as a leader both on and off the court. “I mean, it was probably just something I need to do — especially since I’ve seen a lot of basketball now,” Luka Doncic said. “So I’ve been through a lot — so it was kind of something like, I need to do this to help, to help others.”

Even if it means calling out a missed coverage during a timeout or rallying teammates to leap from the bench and celebrate every small victory. “(Being a leader), sometimes it’s comfortable, sometimes not,” he said. “Sometimes it’s great to be a leader and sometimes you have to say things that you don’t want to, but that’s part of being a leader.”

Well, the Los Angeles Lakers are relying on their $165 million star now. Sure, he’s behind Nikola Jokic in the MVP or best player race . But in the hearts of the Laker Nation? Luka Doncic is the championship-seeking hooper. The kind that sometimes brings back flashbacks of Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson. Therefore, with expectations from the front office and a clear vision for Redick’s fears, the Magician is ready. But are you?