Luka Will Never Have A Better Teammate Than 40-Year-Old LeBron Unless Giannis Or Jokic Join Lakers, Says NBA Analyst

Luka Doncic's long-term commitment to the Lakers has intensified focus on LeBron James' future, with agent Rich Paul confirming James will stay for the upcoming season. This leaves the franchise debating whether to rebuild around Doncic for the future or pursue immediate championship contention by acquiring win-now assets for the duo.

NBA analyst Nick Wright of Fox Sports advocates aggressively supporting James in what may be his final Lakers season, arguing that the 40-year-old is currently the best teammate Doncic has ever had—and might remain so. Wright contends that unless the Lakers secure Giannis Antetokounmpo or Nikola Jokic in 2027, Doncic is unlikely to play with a superior partner during his contract extension, as stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jayson Tatum are entrenched elsewhere.

Wright urges the Lakers to prioritize immediate trades over preserving 2027 salary cap space, calling the wait for Giannis or Jokic a "hell of a gamble." He suggests cap flexibility should only be maintained if the team has verified intelligence that either superstar plans to join in 2027 free agency.

Giannis remains under contract with Milwaukee through 2026-27 (with a 2027-28 player option), amid speculation about his potential departure. Similarly, Jokic has fueled uncertainty about his Denver future by declining an extension this summer and making ambiguous retirement comments; his contract also runs through 2026-27 with a 2027-28 player option. Both could hit free agency in 2027, but the Lakers risk their planned cap space strategy backfiring if either star re-signs with their current teams.