Luka Doncic faces high expectations with the Los Angeles Lakers
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 31, 2026, 3:41 AM
Last updated Aug 31, 2026
NBA insider Tim MacMahon suggests that Luka Doncic could secure his first MVP award this season despite a reshaped Los Angeles Lakers roster. After the departure of five rotation players in free agency, the team relies on new arrivals such as Walker Kessler and Quentin Grimes. MacMahon notes that if the Lakers reach 53 wins and Doncic maintains his typical statistical output, he will have a viable case for the league's top honor. The narrative surrounding the team's lowered expectations following the departure of LeBron James may assist in his campaign. Historically, Doncic has struggled to secure the award against competition from Nikola Jokic and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Voters may also consider a desire for a new winner as a factor in the upcoming race.
- •Luka Doncic leads a Los Angeles Lakers roster featuring new additions like Walker Kessler and Quentin Grimes.
- •Tim MacMahon identifies 53 wins as a potential benchmark for a successful MVP campaign.
- •Doncic previously finished third in MVP voting during the 2023-2024 season.
- •Voter fatigue could potentially influence the selection process for the upcoming season.
- 3:41 AMYahoo Sports — NBA Insider Shares Why Luka Doncic Will Win MVP This Season
"The pressure on Luka Doncic may be stronger than ever to contend leading the Los Angeles Lakers with a flawed roster. NBA fans are still scratching their heads over the Lakers willingly choosing to let five rotation players leave in free agency for questionable replacements. Names like Walker Kessler and Quentin Grimes will have to […] The post NBA Insider Shares Why Luka Doncic Will Win MVP This Season appeared first on HEAVY.
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