He's signed the contract. He's not going anywhere anytime soon. But the Lakers certainly aren't resting on their laurels.
As Slovenia prepares to start Eurobasket play Thursday afternoon against Poland, the Lakers brass, starting with Jeanie Buss and Rob Pelinka, stopped by practice to show support. They took photos. Pelinka released a statement, making it very clear how much the organization supported Luka in this moment that is so important to him. And if it's important to Luka, it's important to the Lakers. That's how it works, now.
It wasn't something the Lakers needed to do, but it was smart to hop on a plane and cross an ocean to support their guy. It's a good look, it's smart business. It's the type of extra step the Lakers have historically taken for its stars, and now Luka is on the receiving end.
Meanwhile, we open the mailbag, starting with ... Luka questions!
Can Dončić play the type of defense that would allow him to be seen as teh league's best player? Even better than Nikola Jokic? (Or if not better, really close?) If he plays at an MVP level, and LeBron is, say, Top 8 or so again this year, how many games does it mean the team has won?
What about the pick-and-roll combination of Luka and Deandre Ayton? How potent might it become? And what kind of offense should Lakers fans expect from JJ Redick this season, more broadly?
Finally, is the Laker most likely to ask for a trade not the guy most media are thinking of?
HOSTS: Andy and Brian Kamenetzky
SEGMENT 1: The Lakers make a smart trip to Poland.
SEGMENT 2: Luka on D, Luka as MVP.
SEGMENT 3: Who asks for a trade?
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