The Los Angeles Lakers are always about their stars, and Luka Doncic is next in line to carry on that tradition. After what appeared to be an uncertain future last year, Doncic fell into their lap, thanks to a stunning trade with the Dallas Mavericks.
As one year approaches from the blockbuster deal, the Slovenian star is in the mix for MVP, given his early-season production. Through 20 games, Doncic is averaging 35.2 points, 8.8 rebounds and 9.1 assists, a remarkable level of production.
Doncic is a walking triple-double whenever he takes the court, and he made history on Friday night in Utah against the Jazz as he became the first Laker since Magic Johnson in 1981 and the fourth ever to record a 40-point triple-double.
LeBron James was asked about his thoughts on Doncic’s performance and he was not surprised at all, via Dave McMenamin of ESPN:
“It’s Luka,” James said. “‘Luka Magic,’ so there’s no surprise. He’s just so damn good. It’s ridiculous.”
With no Austin Reaves or Deandre Ayton in Salt Lake City, L.A. lacked offensive firepower, but the All-NBA guard is a one-man wrecking crew. Granted, Utah is a rebuilding team, but to put up 45 points, 11 rebounds and 14 assists in today’s NBA is no easy feat.
It is also worth mentioning that Doncic is not even shooting great from 3-point range, as he typically does so around 35%. But his offseason body transformation is working wonders and demonstrates that Doncic’s conditioning last season was nowhere near his peak.
Offense should never be an issue whenever the 26-year-old is starting and only 26 games into his first full season in Los Angeles, more triple-doubles and historic performances are expected to follow.
Luka Doncic believes he can do ‘more’ for Lakers
While Doncic is a generational talent, he does have struggles when it comes to shooting and turnovers. However, when Doncic performs at his highest capabilities, he can be a top-five talent.
As time passes and the five-time All-Star continues to develop chemistry with his teammates, he can sustain more consistent production. After an impressive performance against the Jazz, Doncic believes that there is more he can do to help out his team, which is a great mentality to have as a leader and as a star that represents the Lakers.
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