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Luka Doncic denies taking role held by LeBron James on the Lakers, “I think...”

Updated March 17, 2025, 4:56 a.m. by Aaditya Krishnamurthy, NBA Analysis Network 1 min read
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Luka Doncic doesnt think he embraced the role that LeBron James held for the Lakers prior to his injury.

Luka Doncic had an absolute storm of a game against the Phoenix Suns .

The former All-Star delivered 33 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists to help the Los Angeles Lakers get the win.

Doncic was absolutely shocked by how open the Suns left him , remarking that he hadnt ever experienced this in his career.

Austin Reaves was a big fan of Lukas performance against the Suns.

While Doncic gave props to a returning Jaxson Hayes for the win .

But Doncic believes all the Lakers played really well, committing hard to one important aspect of the game against Phoenix.

Luka Doncic applauds Lakers performance Speaking after the Los Angeles Lakers win, Luka Doncic had some kind words for his teammates.

He noted that despite their recent form, the Lakers stepped up on the night.

Doncic singled out the entire teams defensive effort.

The Slovenian star admitted that their last few games showed them what they needed to do, and their execution on the night was perfect.

We knew we had to do better.

We knew we had to be more physical, and I think our defense was amazing today from start to finish.

The Lakers were very strong defensively, holding the Suns to under 100 points.

It was a great team effort from one of the best defensive teams in the NBA this season.

But Doncic also spoke about his role on the team, especially in LeBron James absence, and he admitted he hasnt taken the Kings throne during this time.

Doncic admits he isnt leading like LeBron James During the press conference, a Spanish-speaking reporter asked Luka Doncic about being the leader of the Lakers in LeBron James absence.

He noted that the Lakers are a great squad, but he doesnt consider himself the sole leader.

Rather, the squad has several different leaders who have stepped up in recent weeks.

Good, I think good.

I think a good team doesnt just have one leader, there are many.

Different aspects.

But well, we try to win every game.

Obviously, the trip wasnt good, but were getting back to our best.

Good, I think good.

I think a good team doesn't just have one leader, there are many.

Different aspects.

But well, we try to win every game.

Obviously, the trip wasn't good, but we're getting back to our best Luka was asked how he feels on being the leader in Lebrons absence pic.twitter.com/tnvEno3OYO This degree of humility from Doncic will only endear him further to his teammates and the Lakers fanbase.

Despite early reservations, Luka seems fully locked into the Lakers culture.

However, he and the Lakers will have little time to rest, as they play again tomorrow, hosting the San Antonio Spurs at home.

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