Doncic Emphasizes Next Man Up Mentality as Lakers Face Challenges Without LeBron

LeBron James will be sidelined for at least a month, but the Lakers are not fixated on his absence.

Luka Doncic, however, believes that this won’t significantly alter the team’s overall outlook.

“It’s a major adjustment,” Doncic noted regarding playing without James. “He’s an outstanding player who contributes a lot. But ultimately, we need to embrace the ‘next man up’ mentality. We have a solid group that has been training together, and we’re hopeful that LeBron will return soon. His presence is definitely important for us. Nevertheless, we need to adopt the mindset of ‘next man up.’ That’s crucial.”

When asked if he feels the need to step up in LeBron’s absence, the Slovenian star stated that he doesn’t see it that way.

“I don’t think about it in those terms,” Doncic remarked after Saturday’s practice. “I just want to play basketball. Whether I do less or more, I’m focused on whatever it takes to secure the win.”

Currently, the Lakers are winless in the preseason without James and Doncic, having lost both games to the Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors.

“I’ve been with my national team,” Doncic explained regarding his performance. “I was playing basketball for about a month or so. It’s a long season ahead, so that’s just part of it.”