The Lakers recently signed LeBron James to a two-year, $101 million contract after all the talk of a generous pay cut. But what does the franchise have planned for the future? Yes, they have guys like Austin Reaves, Dalton Knecht, Bronny James and others to take care of business once King James leaves. However, would that be all? Certainly not, and as a result, there have been rumors that Jeanie Buss and company are looking to play the long game, and surprisingly, that plan includes the NBA title contender Luka Doncic.
Doncic is very popular among LeBron fans and they will gladly welcome the next leader of the Lakers. Of course, the franchise must first focus on its current title quest as the 39-year-old’s career is coming to an end soon. However, Lakers legend Robert Horry has looked into these rumors and his answer will surprise you. “He’s not the best defender right now. And that’s the Lakers’ problem!”
“You know, you’ve got to have athletic guys that can play defense. And Luka, he can score the best of them, but you know, we also know you’ve got to take beers out of his hands because he’s not built to stay in shape. He’ll be good, but he’s probably not going to be what you need.” Horry surprisingly claimed on the The Big Shot Bob Podcast.
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The weight gain rumors don’t seem to stop for Luka! And for the most part, Horry made a great point about the Lakers’ “need.” The team is lacking in two crucial areas, namely shooting and defense. The Slovenian can score as much as he wants, but he’s not the best defensive option, as was also seen against the Lakers. Cs last season. Not to mention the fact that, THERE Despite the additions, there have been no major improvements to the roster. In terms of three-point shooting, Dalton Knecht is the only serious candidate so far.
Get out the beers! Luka Doncic’s plan disgusts the Lakers legend! React!

USA Today by Reuters
January 12, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (77) controls the ball against Los Angeles Lakers forward Juan Toscano-Anderson (95) and center Thomas Bryant (31) during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
It’s still too early to predict what will happen after LeBron James retires. But the Lakers could consider making a few moves this season, with a reliable shooter being the main target. On the other hand, Luka Doncic wouldn’t leave Dallas in the near future. Amid the buzz about weight gain and two months before the regular season, how Luka’s Magic Do you plan to fight these allegations?
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Luka Doncic isn’t concerned about his physique right now
This isn’t the first time the Mavs talisman has faced such allegations. He’s found himself in a similar situation before, not once, but twice. Both times, Luka wasn’t really bothered by anything, but he was aware that he had to get back into shape to get there. Nevertheless, Doncic didn’t fail to rise to the occasion in terms of fitness, managing to successfully navigate a 100+ game season, following a final and an OQT, regardless of the outcome. The Slovenian still has time to get back into shape for the upcoming season.
Not to mention his teammates, Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson have already started the grind. It will be exciting to follow the Mavs next season, as they are the second favorite to win the title. Luka Doncic, who was a serious MVP candidate last season, will be trying his luck at the award again. So, would the Slovenian want a major change in his career, even after acquiring a new scoring partner? What do you think about a possible trade to the Lakers? Let us know in the comments.
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Looking for a fresh basketball update? Then be sure to check out this recent interview with rising Georgia Lady Bulldogs star Asia Avinger.