Following LeBron James’ departure from the Los Angeles Lakers, Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are stepping into leadership roles to guide the team into a new era. James had been the franchise’s clear on-court and off-court leader for eight seasons, but with his exit, the responsibility will be shared by the Lakers’ rising talents.
Doncic, who signed a three-year, $165 million extension that began this season, took early steps toward solidifying his leadership position by hosting a team bonding trip in his native Slovenia last August. The trip showcased the growing camaraderie between Doncic and Reaves, who joked about competitive losses in rowing, bowling, and golf during their time overseas. At the Lakers' media day, the two continued their lighthearted banter, highlighting the close friendship that has developed between them and is now a cornerstone of the team dynamic.
Their teammates have acknowledged the complimentary leadership styles of the pair. Forward Jake LaRavia noted that Doncic often leads by example with his relentless work ethic, while Reaves tends to be more vocal and communicative. Both approaches have been seen as valuable as the Lakers integrate a roster featuring nine new players.
Doncic, who was the NBA’s leading scorer last season with 33.5 points per game and ranked third in assists (8.3), brings significant individual production to his leadership role. He also contributed 7.7 rebounds per game and posted shooting splits of 47.6% from the field and 36.6% from three-point range. Despite playing in only 64 games last season due to a left hamstring strain that sidelined him for the final regular-season contests and playoffs, Doncic reported feeling fully recovered after spending the summer rehabbing in Europe. He expressed enthusiasm for the Lakers’ training camp, which began Tuesday, emphasizing his readiness to compete with no restrictions.
Reaves, entering his sixth season with the Lakers and now the team's longest-tenured player, signed a four-year, $180 million contract in June—the largest deal ever awarded to an undrafted NBA player. He earned the contract after posting career highs of 23.2 points and 4.7 rebounds per game last season. Reaves acknowledged that his leadership style differs from those of James and Doncic, favoring personalized, one-on-one conversations over public or group remarks, though he said he is willing to speak up when necessary.
With a roster revamped by the addition of newcomers such as Walker Kessler, Quentin Grimes, Jaden Hardy, Kevon Looney, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Collin Sexton, Matisse Thybulle, and Ziaire Williams, both Doncic and Reaves expressed optimism about the Lakers’ future. Doncic described the new acquisitions as “underrated” and believes that the upcoming training camp will be crucial for building chemistry and understanding each player’s strengths on the court.
As the Lakers prepare for the 2024 season without the iconic presence of James, the duo of Doncic and Reaves is poised to carry the team forward, blending leadership, skill, and experience to navigate a period of transition.