LeBron James heaped praise on his Los Angeles Lakers teammate Luka Doncic, highlighting the Slovenian’s basketball IQ.
The two have held tremendous respect and admiration for each other over the years and now get to do so wearing the same uniform.
“Big-time savant of the game,” James said in a Wall Street Journal feature. “I always use IQ as a measuring point in basketball—guys who can think the game. There are so many guys in our league who can play the game, but to be able to think the game as well puts you at another level.”
Los Angeles has done everything in its power to make Doncic feel welcomed after the Dallas Mavericks made the stunning decision to trade him.
Adding to the praise, James had kind words to share about Doncic as a person, too. “I just love the way he approaches the game,” James said. “I love the way he plays the game. More importantly, man, he’s just a great f—ing guy.”
There has been plenty written and documented about Doncic’s dedication to his fitness this summer. He seems determined to prove to Mavs GM Nico Harrison that he can be extremely fit.
Doncic Learning From LeBron James’ Routine
In the story, Doncic reveals he was “awestruck” by both James intense conditioning program and business acumen. He is learning what he can on both sides and indicated he wants to get into sports ownership at some point.
“That’s something I’m very, very interested in,” Doncic said.
James is set to enter his 23rd season and will turn 41 in December. The two are hoping to lead the Lakers on a deep playoff run after a first round exit last season.
This offseason, the Lakers added Marcus Smart and Deandre Ayton as key pieces to the rotation. Dorian Finney-Smith was a significant loss in free agency, though, as he departed for the Houston Rockets.
Los Angeles will host the Golden State Warriors on opening night Oct. 21.
