Magic Johnson warns Luka Doncic: This is not Dallas, this is Los Angeles

When the quality arrived successful aboriginal February that Luka Dončić was joining the Los Angeles Lakers, the hoops satellite paused for a moment. It is an understatement to accidental that the transportation amazed the public; it was a existent earthquake successful the NBA league.

The debut of the Slovenian successful the jersey of the celebrated franchise took spot connected February 10, and by the extremity of the regular play helium recorded large numbers: an mean of 28 points, 8 rebounds and 7 assists. However, contempt his awesome statistics, the Lakers finished 3rd successful the West, but were rapidly shocked by Minnesota successful the archetypal circular of the playoffs; the bid ended 4:1.

Fans had overmuch higher expectations, but it is wide that this squad has to alteration a batch of things if they privation to beryllium competitory with the strongest teams successful the league adjacent year.

Magic Johnson shares his views

The Lakers' legendary playmaker and 1 of the top faces successful NBA history, Earvin "Magic" Johnson, spoke astir what helium expects from the 25-year-old successful the adjacent season. Although laudatory, helium was besides critical:

"Luka, each that was large erstwhile helium was successful Dallas. But Los Angeles is simply a antithetic story. We play for titles here. Our champion players are not valued by numbers, but by rings," said Johnson.

He added that the Slovenian is expected to repetition what LeBron has already done - bring the trophy. Also, helium didn't spare words astir the caller coach:

"We person to play faster. We play excessively slow, and without defence determination is nary title ring. That has to alteration urgently," helium said, alluding to manager JJ Reddick.

LeBron stays 

However, 1 dilemma has been resolved - the "King" remains. According to the well-informed Shams Charania, LeBron James volition workout his subordinate enactment and enactment with the Lakers for the 2025/2026 season. This means that the celebrated tandem volition yet person the accidental to commencement the play unneurotic and commencement hunting for the title.

Even though helium is 41 years old, the experienced person is inactive susceptible of contributing.