Luka Doncic’s Lakers legacy could differ significantly from LeBron James’ due to his unique connection to the franchise’s history. In 2019, Kobe Bryant made a rare appearance at Staples Center to watch Doncic play, bringing his daughter, Gianna, along for the experience. They sat courtside, highlighting the significance of the moment.
During that game, Doncic was surprised to hear trash talk in Slovenian, his native language. It turned out to be Bryant, who had picked up a few words to playfully get under Doncic’s skin, showcasing the Mamba mentality that defined Bryant’s career.
Fast forward six years, and Doncic is now a member of the Los Angeles Lakers, the very team where Bryant spent all 20 seasons of his illustrious career.
In true Bryant fashion, the late superstar seemed to give Doncic his seal of approval, making this new chapter feel almost prophetic.
For Lakers fans, Doncic represents something that his teammate LeBron James has yet to fully embody.
While James is undoubtedly a face of the NBA and ranks among the greatest players ever, he never played for the Lakers in the same way that lifelong legends like Bryant or Magic Johnson did.
Before joining the Lakers in 2018, James had already made a name for himself over 15 seasons, winning championships with Miami and Cleveland. Despite leading the Lakers to a championship in 2020, his prior fame has made it difficult for Los Angeles to fully embrace him as their own.
Doncic, who spent 6.5 seasons with the Dallas Mavericks before being traded, has yet to win a championship. However, at just 25 years old, he has a golden opportunity to carve out his legacy in Los Angeles, a franchise rich with 17 championships and storied players.
The Lakers are embracing this potential future.
On Monday, the arena was filled with yellow T-shirts featuring Doncic’s No. 77, creating an electric atmosphere. As he warmed up, Serbian music resonated through the venue, and cameras focused on him instead of James during the National Anthem.
Doncic, limited to 24 minutes of play due to a calf strain, contributed 14 points in the Lakers’ 132-113 victory over the Utah Jazz. Despite some rust, he showcased his skills with five rebounds and four assists.
James graciously allowed Doncic to shine.
Before the game, James texted Doncic, offering him the honor of choosing who would be introduced last, a privilege typically reserved for the biggest star. Doncic chose to go last in his debut, but insisted that James would take that spot moving forward.
“He texted me in the morning and he said, ‘Whatever you want,'” Doncic said. “And for him to text me that, it was just amazing. So, it shows what kind of person he is. And he let me have my moment, so I really appreciate it.”
As the team huddled before the game, microphones captured James encouraging Doncic.
“Luka, be your f—king self,” James said. “Don’t fit in. Fit the f—k out.”
The pairing of Doncic and James is thrilling for fans, combining one of the league’s top talents with a legendary player. Their dynamic duo is bound to keep opposing coaches up at night, prompting them to devise complex game plans.
The Lakers have surged recently, winning 12 of their last 14 games and climbing to fourth in the Western Conference, making them potential championship contenders once again.
Since Doncic’s arrival, James has excelled, scoring 24 points on 10-for-17 shooting against the Jazz, following a remarkable 42-point performance against the Golden State Warriors. With Doncic finding his rhythm, defenses will face a significant challenge in stopping both players.
Initially shocked and hurt by the Mavericks’ decision to trade him, Doncic is now fully embracing Los Angeles. He announced on social media that his foundation is donating $500,000 to assist fire recovery efforts in the area. After the game, he shared a heartfelt video thanking Lakers fans for their warm welcome.
A five-time All-Star and All-NBA selectee, Doncic admitted to feeling nervous before his first game with the Lakers.
“I was a little bit nervous before,” Doncic stated. “I don’t remember the last time I was nervous before the game.”
Those nerves stemmed not only from joining a new team but also from the immense responsibility he carries as a potential franchise leader. Kobe Bryant held that mantle for years, followed by LeBron James. Now, the Lakers are looking to Doncic for a long-lasting legacy.
This is a heavy burden for any player, even a superstar.
Dirk Nowitzki, who led the Mavericks to their only championship in 2011 and played alongside Doncic in his final season, made the trip to Los Angeles to witness Doncic’s debut.
“I will always be a Mav for life, but had to come support my guy 77 @luka7doncic in the first game of his new chapter!” Nowitzki shared on social media.
Something special is unfolding in Los Angeles, and the excitement is palpable.
The NBA thrives when the Lakers are competitive, and with Doncic on board, they may have found their path to future championships, long after James hangs up his sneakers. This moment feels like a prelude to something historic.
Lakers fans have embraced Doncic, and he is reciprocating that love.
On Monday, the absence of Kobe and Gianna was felt deeply. Doncic reminisced during his introductory press conference about their attendance at a game and Bryant’s playful heckling.
He expressed a wish that they could witness the current developments.
“I remember that exact moment that happened,” Doncic reflected. “It always stayed in my mind. It was an amazing moment, just for Kobe to know my name was amazing for me. I just wish Kobe and Gigi were here to see this moment. I’m excited about this new journey and happy to be here.”
