Luka Doncic didn’t enjoy a relaxing summer after last season’s disappointment.
Following the elimination and defensive concerns of the first round, the superstar underwent serious physical transformations and ruled Eurobasket 2025 against Slovenia.
Luka Doncic made Slovenia appear in the unexpected quarterfinals, slim and fitter as he smashed through the tournament’s scoring leaderboard.
He even won a defensive player nomination for this year, tackling previous criticisms about his two-way play.
Despite his success in Eurobasket, Donsic’s focus remains fixed on achieving his ultimate goal with the Lakers.
His championship drive has become a priority for all consumption that affects every aspect of his preparation.
“He emphasizes every day that his goal is to win a championship,” a source close to Doncic told ESPN. “He trusts the front office to do their part and trusts what they’re building.”
This ruthless pursuit of the championship coincides with the Lakers’ organizational goals and puts great pressure on general manager Rob Perinka’s roster responsibility.
The front office should provide competitive pieces to support Doncic’s championship window.
Pelinka worked on the center position by acquiring the Deandre Ayton, and improved defensive capabilities with the addition of Marcus Smart and Jake Laravia over the summer.
LeBron James could remain in the franchise despite a clear transition to Donsic’s team following the superstar contract extension.
Pelinka views the dual superstar setup as providing valuable strategic flexibility.
“We talked about the importance of having options when it comes to team building. When you use that word, that’s not what we’re saying in the future. I think options are there now,” explained Perinka.
“To have both Luka as the best player on the planet, and LeBron James, who is still able to be one of the great players in our game, even at his age, to be able to carefully consider the value of that option.”
Perinka highlighted the unique championship possibilities created by the combination, while acknowledging the franchise’s historic expectations.
“And we see that next year (AS) these two players have a key moment. We will continue to try and do everything we can to offer this franchise its 18th championship,” Pelinka concluded.
Well, starting next month, Donsic hopes that Team Perinka, built in the summer, will be strong enough to relieve stress rather than add to it.