The new era in LA: Luka Doncic embraces ultimate leadership role for post-LeBron Lakers

The Los Angeles Lakers have entered a new chapter, and Luka Doncic is embracing the responsibility that comes with it. With LeBron James no longer in Los Angeles for the first time since the 2017-18 season, the franchise has handed its next era to the Slovenian superstar.

James ’ departure means more than losing an elite player. That influence can’t simply be replaced, but Doncic appears ready to accept a larger role within the locker room.

His approach was evident during the Lakers’ recent five-day trip to Slovenia. Doncic brought his teammates to his home country for workouts, sightseeing, meals, golf, rowing and other activities designed to strengthen relationships before the season. The trip gave the newly assembled group an early opportunity to build chemistry.

Doncic has also acknowledged that leadership has become more important to him.

“Trying to be a leader. Five years ago, I was [three years in] the league. I wasn’t the leader I was supposed to [be]. So, leadership is an important part in my case now,” Doncic said in a video posted to his YouTube page.

The timing is significant because Los Angeles has undergone substantial roster turnover. The Lakers added Walker Kessler, Collin Sexton, Quentin Grimes and several other players during the offseason, while Austin Reaves remains alongside Doncic as another major piece.

The changes have made Doncic the clear focal point heading into the 2026-27 campaign.

A Lakers team designed around Doncic

The front office has made its intentions clear by constructing a roster suited to Doncic’s strengths. Kessler was acquired from Utah in a deal involving two unprotected first-round picks and two pick swaps, giving the Lakers the interior presence they wanted around their superstar.

Reaves also received a new four-year contract, reinforcing his importance alongside Doncic . Their partnership gives Los Angeles an established backcourt combination, while the addition of Kessler provides another option for Doncic in the pick-and-roll.

Doncic is coming off a remarkable individual campaign. He averaged 33.5 points, 8.3 assists and 7.7 rebounds across 64 games, won his second scoring title and earned First Team All-NBA honors. The Lakers finished 53-29 before falling in the Western Conference semifinals.

Now the challenge extends beyond statistics as Doncic has to establish standards, integrate new teammates and help create the togetherness coach JJ Redick wants from his team.

His Slovenia trip was an important first step because by bringing his teammates into his world and taking responsibility for creating connections, Doncic showed a side of leadership that goes beyond what he does with a basketball in his hands.

Training camp will provide the next test, as this is no longer simply about Doncic replacing James as the Lakers’ biggest star. It’s about whether he can establish his own identity as the face of the franchise and help define what the next era of Lakers basketball will look like.