He proved that right away in the season opener against the Golden State Warriors, scoring 43 points along with 12 rebounds and nine assists on 17-for-27 shooting from the field. However, without LeBron James, who for the first time in his career missed a season opener due to injury, Doncic looked like a man without enough quality support.

Lakers head coach JJ Redick didn't shy away from what is going to be the unavoidable problem early on in the season.

For what it’s worth, Nowitzki was not alone in his take. Fellow Mavs legend Steve Nash also named Doncic when asked about his MVP prediction, while sports reporter Taylor Rooks had the same thoughts and mentioned how she was impressed by the Slovenian star’s conditioning during the offseason.

The Los Angeles Lakers are set to begin their 2025-26 NBA campaign in just a few hours. For the first time, the season will begin with Luka Doncic leading the charge. Enough time has passed for people to have made their peace with the blockbuster trade last season,

Houston Rockets vs. Oklahoma City Thunder and Warriors vs. Lakers. Lineups, injuries, players, where to watch, and more.

Lakers urged to sign 6-foot-8 Rockets wing, boost Luka Doncic's championship odds originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

By Janina Nuno Rios (Reuters) -With LeBron James sidelined, Luka Doncic opens the new NBA season as unquestioned leader of the Los Angeles Lakers, the Slovenian superstar eyeing a long-awaited MVP and hoping to turn his dominance into silverware for the storied franchise.

Lakers Jaxson Hayes and Luka Doncic are developing a bond, with Hayes working to join Doncic on the Slovenian national team.