Luka Dončić, who joined the Los Angeles Lakers through a trade with the Dallas Mavericks, will lead the team with LeBron James in the 2025 NBA season as the franchise pursues a title.
The Lakers secured Dončić through a deal that sent Anthony Davis to Dallas and later confirmed a three-year, $165-million extension for Dončić in an August statement.
Team officials said the move prepares the roster for continued contention after James’ eventual exit.
James, entering his 23rd NBA season, said he looks forward to playing with Dončić and acknowledged the possibility that the season could be his last. He cited his intent to help transition leadership to Dončić.
The Lakers reported that the roster overhaul forms part of a long-term plan to sustain playoff contention. Dončić said he intends to contribute to the team’s title push and learn from James’ experience.
The Lakers open the season on October 25, 2025, at the Staples Center against the defending champions. The game will mark the first competitive appearance of the Dončić-James pairing.