LeBron James is eager to team up with Luka Doncic at the Los Angeles Lakers after a shocking trade that has sent shockwaves through the NBA.
Doncic was officially introduced as a Lakers player on Tuesday after a stunning deal that saw Anthony Davis move to the Dallas Mavericks.
James, who only learned about the trade late Saturday, admitted on Tuesday that he was still processing the news. Speaking for the first time since the deal, he reflected on the emotional transition.
“It’s been a whirlwind,” James said after leading the Lakers to a dominant 122-97 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers.
“It’s been challenging for sure, you know, especially for me. I had six years with AD (Anthony Davis), won a championship with my guy, one of my best friends, obviously.
“But you know it’s a business, and you understand that. It’s the business of basketball. We understand that.”
Despite the bittersweet departure of Davis, James expressed excitement about the prospect of playing alongside Doncic, who watched from the sidelines during the Lakers’ latest win.
“It’s going to be special,” James said. “We’re gonna attract a lot of eyes.
“Obviously our ability to score, rebound and pass — it’s gonna make it a lot easier on our teammates, and that’s all we want to do.
“We want to be able to create opportunities for our teammates where they only have to catch, finish, catch dunk, catch shoot, and it’s our job to lead them every single night.
“Listen, Luka is a big-time player — 25 years old, hasn’t even reached his prime yet, and he’s done some amazing stuff in our league already.
“I’m happy to have him. And LA is happy to have him. It’s still a little bit surreal, to be honest.”
Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka stated earlier on Tuesday that Doncic, who has been sidelined since December 25 due to a calf injury, could be ready to play soon.
Reports indicate that Doncic might be fit to face the Indiana Pacers on Saturday.
