The Los Angeles Lakers organization has undergone a lot of changes over the last year. Not only did they swap out superstar big man Anthony Davis for a younger superstar in Luka Doncic, but Jeanie Buss and her family also chose to sell their majority ownership stake in the franchise to Mark Walter.
With a new superstar and owner in place, the Lakers are looking to get back to prominence as soon as possible, although Buss will still remain in her role as Governor for at least the next five years.
But for the first time in a while, the organization has a clear vision for the future, building around Doncic after the 26-year-old signed a long-term extension last summer. In an interview with Alex Sherman and Jessica Golden of CNBC, Buss spoke about that and how important Doncic is to the franchise:
“The partnership will give us the stability to continue to move forward as we build towards a team around Doncic,” Buss said. “We couldn’t be more proud that he is a Laker. He is a young all-star that the fans love to see.”
Doncic is not the only superstar currently on the Lakers as they also have 41-year-old LeBron James. With him in his 23rd NBA season though, it could very well be his last in L.A.
James has given no indication that he plans to retire and the Lakers would reportedly welcome him back next season, but he will be a free agent that can choose where he wants to finish his career.
Jeanie also spoke about that, praising James for his greatness at his age while also recognizing the uncertainty surround his future:
“Never say never, but you know, he certainly hasn’t given an indication,” said Buss. “He’s earned the right to decide how his career will go, and you know, he continues to impress.”
A report recently came out saying Buss was ready to move on from James and even attempted to trade him a couple of years ago. While she refuted that, it will be interesting to see if that affects his decision-making going into a important offseason for both LeBron and the Lakers.
Luka Doncic supported Lakers’ approach at trade deadline
It was a pretty quiet trade deadline for the Lakers as they are prioritizing maintaining assets and cap space for this summer to build around Doncic.
While L.A. is still hoping to compete for a championship this year, the organization’s focus is clearly on the future, which is an approach that Doncic reportedly supports.
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