Luka Doncic didn’t take long to settle into life with the Los Angeles Lakers — and now, with the NBA Playoffs tipping off this weekend, he’s setting his sights on the ultimate prize: a championship.
“It’s all about one thing now — winning it all,” Doncic said confidently during Thursday’s media session. “We’ve got the squad, we’ve got the chemistry, and when we’re all locked in, we’re tough to beat.”
New Team, Same Goal
After a blockbuster midseason trade from the Dallas Mavericks, Doncic has been nothing short of electric for the purple and gold. In just 28 games with L.A., he’s averaged 28.1 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists — all while adjusting to new teammates and a new system under head coach JJ Redick.
But Doncic isn’t new to high-pressure basketball. He’s a postseason machine, and just last year, he powered the Mavericks to the NBA Finals despite dealing with injuries to his knee, ankle, and chest. Now healthy and surrounded by a deeper supporting cast — including LeBron James, Austin Reaves, and a tough group of role players — he’s ready to go even further.
Familiar Foe, New Jersey
The Lakers will open their playoff run against the Minnesota Timberwolves — the same team Doncic dominated in last year’s Western Conference Finals. Back then, he averaged 32.4 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 8.2 assists over five games, including 23 made threes in the series.
But this time, the matchup will look different. He’s wearing purple and gold, and the Lakers — the No. 3 seed in the West — have home-court advantage for the first round.
Playoff Luka Incoming
“I love the big games,” Doncic said. “The playoffs are just fun — every possession counts, everybody goes 100%, and that’s when the game is at its best.”
Even with just over two months on the Lakers’ roster, Doncic has built promising chemistry with his teammates. Though he’s only played 21 games with both James and Reaves on the floor, the potential is clear. The Lakers are 19-12 since Luka’s arrival, and they look increasingly dangerous heading into the postseason.
Eyes on the Prize
Doncic isn’t making any wild promises — but he’s not shying away from expectations, either.
“We’ve got guys who are ready to go to war,” he said. “Everybody’s staying connected. The chemistry is there. I think we really have a shot.”
With LeBron’s leadership, a battle-tested roster, and one of the most dynamic postseason performers of this generation in Doncic, the Lakers are more than just contenders — they’re a serious threat to raise Banner No. 18.
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