Lakers News: Luka Doncic Has ‘Utmost Respect’ & Loves Playing With LeBron James

The relationship between LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers has become significantly strained, largely due to the team's acquisition of Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks. The Lakers have firmly shifted their franchise direction towards Doncic, reportedly leaving James behind. This culminated in the Lakers not offering LeBron a contract extension while he weighed his player option, leaving him as an expiring contract for the first time in his career and raising questions about the dynamic between the established star and the new star.

Despite the organizational tension, LeBron James and Luka Doncic maintain a strong personal relationship characterized by mutual respect and admiration. Doncic's agent confirmed that Luka loves playing with LeBron, has learned much from him, holds him in the utmost respect, and considers it an honor to be his teammate. This respect dates back years, and they enjoy playing together, boasting potentially the highest collective basketball IQ of any duo in NBA history. However, the timing is unfortunate, as James (entering his age-41 season) and the Lakers can no longer prioritize both timelines simultaneously, unlike if they had teamed up when James was younger.

LeBron James' future with the Lakers is now a major question heading into the 2025-26 season. Rumors of a potential trade, including past inquiries from the Golden State Warriors, have resurfaced. This speculation intensified after LeBron picked up his player option, and his agent, Rich Paul, issued a statement emphasizing James' desire to win now while evaluating the Lakers' offseason moves. This opened the door to the possibility of James wanting to move on, leading to renewed trade interest, with the Warriors again reportedly considering making an offer.