The Los Angeles Lakers experienced a setback in their preseason game against the Phoenix Suns, losing 114-104 on October 13th. While the outcome of preseason games typically holds little significance for teams without a young core to evaluate, this contest highlighted the return of Luka Doncic, who made a strong impression with 25 points and seven rebounds in his preseason debut.
Despite committing five turnovers in just 22 minutes of play, Doncic’s presence on the court was a reason for optimism among his teammates, who are looking forward to the upcoming season. Hailed as a potential MVP candidate, Doncic carries significant expectations, and the Lakers are poised to contend for a championship, bolstered by confidence in the Slovenian star’s abilities.
The game also marked the beginning of a promising partnership between Doncic and Deandre Ayton. After struggling with less experienced point guards during his last two seasons with the Portland Trail Blazers, Ayton is now benefitting from having an elite playmaker like Doncic on his team. Ayton acknowledged Doncic’s impact, stating, “He draws fouls, and he makes your teammates better. He puts you in that spotlight where you’re wide open.” This connection was evident when Doncic connected with Ayton for a lob early in the game, signaling the potential for a productive offensive partnership.
Ayton’s imposing presence on the court, especially in pick-and-roll situations, creates opportunities for other Lakers players such as Austin Reaves, LeBron James, Jake LaRavia, Rui Hachimura, and Dalton Knecht, who all excel at catch-and-shoot plays. Observing Doncic’s court vision, Ayton noted, “I feel like he’s got eyes on the back of his head.” This kind of synergy could prove crucial for the Lakers as they navigate the season.
With LeBron James dealing with health concerns, this might be the first time his team’s offensive strategy will not primarily hinge on him. Doncic’s ability to lead the offense is a welcome development for the Lakers, who are looking to find their rhythm and maximize their potential as they gear up for a competitive season. The excitement surrounding the combination of Doncic and Ayton, paired with the Lakers’ playmaking depth, paints a hopeful picture for their championship aspirations.