Luka Doncic said he doesn’t feel compelled to do more while LeBron James recovers from sciatica, emphasizing a team-first approach as the Los Angeles Lakers navigate the veteran forward’s expected three-to-four week absence.
Doncic addressed his role after practice Saturday, stating his focus remains on winning regardless of individual statistics. The Lakers are 0-2 in the preseason without both James and Doncic, losing to Phoenix and Golden State.
“I don’t view it that way,” Doncic said. “I just want to play basketball. If I do less, if I do more, whatever it takes for me to get a win.”
JJ Redick said it remains undetermined whether Doncic will play in Sunday’s preseason rematch against the Golden State Warriors. Doncic will play in two of the Lakers’ remaining four preseason games as the team manages his workload.
Doncic was a full participant Saturday after having his workload modified all week. Doncic played for Slovenia in EuroBasket this summer, prompting the cautious approach.
“I had [the] national team,” Doncic explained. “Playing one month or something of basketball [for Slovenia]. Obviously it’s a long season ahead, so just because of that.”
Redick faces uncertainty about the starting lineup until James returns. Doncic, Austin Reaves and Deandre Ayton will occupy three spots, but the final two positions remain undecided.
Rui Hachimura started 57 of 59 games last season and is under consideration. Jarred Vanderbilt has started both preseason games and is the healthiest he has been since the 2023 Western Conference finals.
Free agent signees Jake LaRavia and Marcus Smart provide additional options. Smart, sidelined with Achilles tendinopathy, will play against the Warriors on Sunday, according to Redick.
“It’s a big change,” Doncic said of playing without James. “He’s a great player. He can help us a lot. But at the end of the day, our mentality needs to be ‘next man up.'”