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League: NBASport: BasketballCountry: United StatesCategory: Scores & Results

Luka Dončić steps up as Lakers' leader after LeBron James' departure

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 28, 2026, 7:26 PM

Last updated Sep 28, 2026

Luka Dončić steps up as Lakers' leader after LeBron James' departure
Summary

Luka Dončić expressed excitement about taking on the leadership role for the Los Angeles Lakers following LeBron James' departure to the Philadelphia 76ers. Dončić highlighted his past experiences as a team leader during his time with the Dallas Mavericks, noting that he feels comfortable and prepared for this new challenge. This transition comes as the Lakers rebuild their roster, having traded for Walker Kessler and re-signed Austin Reaves. Dončić aims for a championship run after last season's playoff exit against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Source Links
Yahoo Sports
Status Watch
  • •Luka Dončić is now leading the Lakers after LeBron James' exit.
  • •Lakers acquired Walker Kessler and re-signed Austin Reaves.
  • •Dončić averaged 34.4 points in the first 10 games last season.
  • •The Lakers aim for a championship following last season's early playoff exit.
  • •Dončić stated, 'If that's not your goal, I don't know what you're doing here.'
Latest Updates
  • 7:26 PMYahoo Sports — Luka Dončić says it 'feels great' to be the leader of the Lakers following LeBron James' exit
What they're saying
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Luka Dončić is ready to be the Lakers' leader.

Related Teams & Leagues
Dallas MavericksLos Angeles LakersOklahoma City ThunderPhiladelphia 76ersNBABasketball

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