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LeBron James is set to be sidelined for a minimum of a month, but the Lakers are not fixating on his absence.
Luka Doncic, on the other hand, believes this will not significantly impact the team’s overall outlook.
“It’s a substantial shift,” Doncic remarked regarding competing without James. “He’s an outstanding player who adds tremendous value. Nevertheless, our focus must be on the principle of ‘next man up.’ We have a solid roster that’s been training, and we hope LeBron can return to us soon. Clearly, we will need him, but our approach has to be ‘next man up.’ That’s all there is to it.”
When asked if he feels he needs to step up in LeBron’s absence, the Slovenian star clarified that this isn’t how he views the situation.
“I don’t see it that way,” Doncic said following Saturday’s practice. “My goal is simply to play basketball. Whether I do less or more, I’ll do whatever it takes to secure a win.”
Currently, the Lakers have yet to win a preseason game, posting an 0-2 record against the Phoenix Suns and the Golden State Warriors without James and Doncic.
“I had my time with the national team,” Doncic explained regarding his recent performance. “I played for about a month. It’s a lengthy season ahead, and that’s just part of it.”
