The Los Angeles Lakers are Luka Doncic’s team now. He has signed a three-year extension and has indicated that he plans to stay a Laker for a long time. The Lakers are now doing everything in their power to build the best possible team around Luka to keep their star happy and contending for championships.
The Lakers' free agent signings were the first sign of this. They listened to Luka’s wishes and landed him two key role players that should fit in well with his playing style.
Lakers President of Basketball Operations Rob Pelinka finally spoke out about the Lakers' free agency moves in a recent press conference.
“And then being able to add Marcus Smart, Defensive Player of the Year a couple years ago, I think a chip on his shoulder to be back at that level and put the league on notice. I think having players like that surrounding both Luka and LeBron, guys who can defend multiple positions, is really important...We like the upgrades we were able to make to the roster. But by no means are we going to be satisfied. I think every year, we’re on an infinite cycle to try to improve this team and win championships and we’ll stay committed to that work.”
Pelinka is making it clear, he likes where the Lakers are right now, but he won’t hesitate to make major changes if necessary.
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No player, except Luka, is safe on the Lakers roster. The second Luka isn’t satisfied, or the front office sees a better opportunity, they won’t hesitate to make a trade. While this might not be what some of the Lakers' role players want to hear, it is a necessary reality. The Lakers are Luka’s team now, and if you aren’t going to help Luka win a championship, you’re getting shown the door.
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