Luka Dončić Hasn’t Pushed Los Angeles Lakers To Add Superstar-Level Co-Star For When LeBron James Is Gone

Luka Dončić hasn’t pushed the Los Angeles Lakers to add a superstar-level co-star for when LeBron James is no longer on the team, according to NBA reporter Dave McMenamin of ESPN.

James, 41, becomes an unrestricted free agent this offseason. He could retire from the NBA, re-sign with the Lakers or leave Los Angeles.

Most people in NBA circles believe that if James doesn’t retire this offseason, he will either re-sign with the Lakers or return to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

“A source familiar with Luka Dončić’s thinking told ESPN that L.A.’s deadline approach with ‘adherence to discipline’ and focus on the ‘long-term picture’ was supported by the 26-year-old star,” McMenamin wrote. “He has not pushed the team to add a superstar-level co-star for when LeBron James is no longer on the roster.”

The leading scorer in NBA history, James joined the Lakers in 2018. He guided the franchise to the 2020 championship against the Miami Heat. Los Angeles also made the Western Conference Finals in 2023.

The Lakers acquired Dončić from the Dallas Mavericks last season. Dončić is the new franchise player in Los Angeles, replacing James, who would be welcomed back by the Purple and Gold next season.

“If James wants to play a 24th season, he would be welcomed back in L.A., sources told ESPN,” McMenamin wrote.

The Lakers are expected to heavily pursue a trade for Milwaukee Bucks swingman Giannis Antetokounmpo this offseason. Los Angeles didn’t make a blockbuster trade at this year’s trade deadline. The front office made only one move, sending Gabe Vincent to the Atlanta Hawks for Luke Kennard.

This offseason, the Lakers can offer up to three first-round picks to the Bucks for Antetokounmpo. In addition, Los Angeles can absorb Antetokounmpo’s contract into cap space without Milwaukee having to take back potentially unwanted salary.

Dončić guided the Mavericks to the 2024 NBA Finals, a series the Boston Celtics won in five games. Dončić is still looking to win his first NBA championship.