The Luka Doncic commerce that despatched the Slovenian star to the Los Angeles Lakers shook your complete NBA world. The most effective gamers within the league was headed to the largest market. It was an earth-shattering commerce that utterly flipped the panorama of the NBA, even when the outcomes did not present but.
Nevertheless, one facet that went beneath the radar by many is Doncic’s demeanor after the commerce. Earlier than the commerce, Doncic was adamant about staying in Dallas for a very long time. It is sensible, then, that the star’s vibes would not be good after the commerce, even when he was despatched to the Lakers of all groups.
This preseason, although, it appears like Doncic is lastly discovering his smile once more. After an electrical preseason efficiency, the Lakers star was visibly again to standard chirpy and enjoyable self. Even head coach JJ Redick took discover of the change in Doncic’s attituude.
“He has a capability to do what I might name it, like, foolish stuff, however nonetheless be locked in. It’s vital to him that basketball is enjoyable,” Redick stated, per Dan Woike of The Athletic. “He’s at play. And that’s a part of what makes him nice.”
Lakers teammate Austin Reaves additionally famous that Doncic appeared extra “at peace” with the commerce now than he was earlier than.
“I’m certain there was one million issues going via his head,” Reaves stated. “And that’s not saying that he wasn’t enjoyable to be round. He was at all times, nonetheless joking, having enjoyable. However you’ll be able to inform that, he’s at peace with it. And he’s excited to go to conflict with us each evening.”
The Lakers at the moment are hoping to get the complete Luka Doncic expertise after a full offseason collectively. The Slovenian star was nonetheless wonderful in Los Angeles (28.2 factors, 8.1 rebounds, and seven.5 assists per recreation), however his effectivity took a little bit of successful and his protection was worse than standard. Now, with a brand new look and an offseason to type issues out, Doncic is able to take over.