16 September, 2025
lebron-james-lauds-luka-doncic-ahead-of-nba-season-kickoff

UPDATE: The Los Angeles Lakers are gearing up for the 2025-26 NBA season with a thrilling partnership at the forefront: LeBron James and Luka Doncic. Just confirmed, James publicly praised Doncic, expressing his admiration for the young star’s basketball IQ and overall approach to the game.

In a recent statement, James did not hold back his appreciation, saying, “I JUST LOVE the way he approaches the game. I love the way he plays the game. More importantly, man, he’s just a great (expletive) guy.” This strong endorsement comes after a tumultuous offseason filled with speculation about James’s future and the fit between the two superstars.

Despite questions about whether James would remain with the Lakers, reports indicate he is likely to complete the final year of his contract with the team. Many are watching closely to see if he will retire, re-sign, or seek a new team after this season, intensifying the urgency surrounding the Lakers’ performance.

James, now 40 years old, continues to defy age, having averaged 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds last season while shooting an impressive 51.3 percent from the field. Luka Doncic, in his first season with the Lakers, made waves by averaging 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists across just 28 games.

The duo’s chemistry will be critical as they aim to lead the Lakers back to NBA Finals contention. Following James’s glowing remarks, speculation suggesting a disconnect between him and Doncic has been dispelled, showcasing a promising collaboration that could yield significant wins on the court.

As the season approaches, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this formidable partnership will unfold. With both players showing elite performance levels, the excitement surrounding the Lakers is palpable.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Los Angeles Lakers and the NBA as the season kicks off. For the latest developments, visit Newsweek Sports.