When Luka Dončić was traded midseason from the Dallas Mavericks to the Los Angeles Lakers, it sent shockwaves through the NBA. The move wasn’t just a seismic basketball shift — it represented a cultural adjustment for the 26-year-old Slovenian star, now tasked with adapting to a new city, a new team, and a new level of scrutiny. But alongside LeBron James, Dončić appears to be embracing the moment — and evolving through it.
Appearing on the Mind the Game podcast hosted by James and Steve Nash, Dončić reflected on his transition to Los Angeles with trademark honesty and humor.
Luka Dončić’s Hollywood Debut: New City, New Partner, and a New Standard With the Los Angeles Lakers
“This is the first city I’ve played in that has an ocean,” Dončić said. “I really like the ocean. After a couple days, that was the first thing on my mind. I like it very much. The only thing is the traffic.”
LeBron laughed in agreement, recalling Dončić’s early days in L.A.: “The first thing I asked him was, ‘How are you adjusting?’ He just said, ‘I like the beach.’ That was it.”
For Dončić, the beaches and fishing trips have been a welcome change, but it’s the opportunity to play alongside one of the game’s greatest that’s left a deeper mark.
“I’ve never played with a guy like this,” Dončić said of James. “Just to play with someone like him is unbelievable. I can learn so much. Off the court, he does so much to be ready. On the court, everybody knows who he is — but to see him show up 10 hours before a game? That’s different.”
For James, the appreciation is mutual. He praised Dončić’s unique tempo and command of the floor — traits that have quickly meshed with L.A.’s evolving system.
“It’s always been his pace,” James said. “He’s never allowed anyone to dictate where he goes on the floor. He controls the game, and we’re all working off of that.”
Despite the early chemistry and a 50–32 finish that earned the Lakers the West’s third seed, the postseason didn’t go as planned. Los Angeles was bounced in five games by the Minnesota Timberwolves, and Dončić — while productive — faced criticism, particularly for his defense. Still, his playoff stat line was impressive: 30.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game.
His father, Saša Dončić, believes the fit with L.A. is deeper than just basketball.
“We know Luka plays better when the pressure is bigger,” Saša said. “I just believe he is born for this city, and this city is made for him. It fits with his character.”
Early concerns about whether Dončić would thrive under Hollywood’s bright lights are quickly fading. The Lakers have made an effort to support him through the transition, involving him in team processes and giving him space to lead. And Dončić is doing his part off the court, reportedly revamping his diet and conditioning in a bid to come back leaner, sharper, and more motivated.
If the early signs are any indication, Dončić isn’t just adjusting to Los Angeles — he’s preparing to take ownership of it. Paired with LeBron James and buoyed by a full offseason with the team, year two in purple and gold could be the breakout many expect.