Luka Doncic reveals first look at LeBron-less Lakers
The Lakers look much different after a complete overhaul of the roster this offseason.
After LeBron James informed the Lakers he would not return for the upcoming season, the Luka Doncic era officially launched. The star guard’s leadership is on full display this summer as he’s hosting the entire Lakers roster for a four-day minicamp in Slovenia.
Doncic welcomed the team to his home country and shared pictures of their first day on the overseas trip via social media Thursday.
“First supper,” Doncic wrote in a caption on his Instagram Story.
Doncic has spared no expense to bring his teammates to Slovenia, where the squad is working out, playing pickup games, golfing and exploring Ljubljana. The Lakers star chartered a flight to get the team to Slovenia and back.
The Lakers minicamp is in the midst of ongoing drama surrounding the franchise, including the $12.5 billion sale of the team by Mark Walter and the Buss family’s heated battle over its remaining stakes in the team.
Thus, Doncic’s role as the face of the franchise is more important than ever.
The Lakers’ front office made a flurry of signings this summer to address key holes on the roster, such as an A-list center. General manager Rob Pelinka successfully acquired Doncic’s top priority of the offseason by signing Walker Kessler to a $130 million deal.
James’ departure officially placed Doncic in the leading role of Hollywood’s Lakers, and his first act as captain of the ship is the minicamp in Slovenia. Over the four days, the team will get to know one another and learn how to jell with each other on the court — an important aspect of a championship team.
Doncic has handled the ongoing Lakers drama with poise, and he’ll have to retain that characteristic once the season begins as LA will look to him to put on a strong performance.