The Luka Doncic to Los Angeles Lakers trade has shaken up the NBA.
LeBron James is confident he has a ‘generational talent’ now playing alongside him, following the LA Lakers shock acquisition of Luka Doncic.
Now the rest of the league is waiting to see how it all plays out. The pair are two ball dominant players, but at the age of 40, having a player to shoulder the burden with should work in LeBron James’ favor – even if Charles Barkley does not believe it will work.
Former teammate Dwyane Wade has also expressed his belief it can make LeBron James even more dangerous as a player, having Doncic alongside him.
Current NBA star Paul George believes the Lakers now present a headache for every team they face.
Losing Anthony Davis and Max Christie has hit the Lakers defensively, but with LeBron James, Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, the trio have an elite scoring potential if they can work together effectively.
Paul George told his podcast that he is convinced James and Doncic can play well together, and will cause difficulties for opponents.
The 76ers star said: “They understand spacing, they understand pick and rolls, they see plays two-three plays ahead, they know how to manipulate the defense, they are both obviously great with the basketball in their hands.
“I think that was the reason Luka was brought over, so ‘Bron can be off the ball a little more and not have to make all the plays.
“I think it’s going to work. I think it’s definitely a ‘pick your poison’ sort of situation, it’s going to be tough.
“Both of those guys can set up the defense, you got to watch out.”
He added on Doncic: “One of his greatest gifts is he can throw your timing off. There’s not many guys who can mess with him.”
Luka Doncic identified Mark Williams as a center he wanted to play with, and the Lakers agreed a trade with the Charlotte Hornets before the deadline.
This was later voided after Williams failed a physical, and Paul George said he is relieved that the Lakers did got even stronger with the deal, as the 23-year-old is exactly the type of player Doncic thrives alongside.
The former Clipper star said: “What Luka is so great at playing with is athletic fives. That’s what unlocks his game and potential. His ability to get downhill and put pressure at the rim, is having an aerial five man.”
“It’s going to be dynamic with Jaxson Hayes at the center position. Thank God the Mark Williams ____ didn’t go through.
Mark Williams is yet to return to the Charlotte Hornets as he digests the disappointment of the failed trade.
George is still in awe of the Lakers’ options: “Austin Reaves is definitely a weapon, good luck in the West, it’s going to be a nightmare when you play the Lakers.”
