Charles Barkley predicts that the much-anticipated partnership between LeBron James and Luka Doncic will face challenges on the Los Angeles Lakers, at least initially.
In a recent appearance on NBATV, Barkley expressed concern over how the two ball-dominant superstars would coexist on the court. “This thing is not going to be smooth in L.A. with (Doncic) and LeBron, because both of them want the ball 100 percent of the time,” Barkley said, via Larry Brown Sports.
Barkley’s comments highlight a key issue: both James and Doncic thrive with the ball in their hands, and neither player is known for moving without it. “Luka does not move without the ball. LeBron does not move without the ball,” Barkley noted. “There’s going to be some serious growing pains when those two try to play together.”
While acknowledging the talent of both players, Barkley questioned how their styles would mesh. “Now, they’re both great players, don’t get me wrong, but LeBron wants the ball, and Luka definitely wants the ball. It’s going to be very interesting how that works out.”
This trade, which has rocked the NBA world, saw the Lakers acquire Doncic, along with Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris, from the Dallas Mavericks. In return, the Mavericks received Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick. The Utah Jazz also played a facilitating role, securing Jalen Hood-Schifino and two second-round picks.
The Lakers approached the trade with the goal of making Doncic their long-term cornerstone. The 25-year-old Doncic has been stellar this season, averaging 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists, although he is currently sidelined with a calf injury. The Lakers are betting on his elite offensive game and playmaking to help lead the team for years to come.
However, integrating Doncic with LeBron James, who is averaging 24 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 9.1 assists at 40 years old, presents challenges. James has played a ball-dominant role throughout his career, and Doncic, too, thrives as the primary offensive initiator.
For the Mavericks, the trade was a win-now move, with Davis offering a defensive boost to a team that already boasts offensive firepower led by Kyrie Irving. Davis has been dominant for Dallas this season, averaging 25.7 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 3.4 assists.
The trade has the potential to shake up the Western Conference playoff race. As of now, the Lakers sit at 28-19, fifth in the West, while the Mavericks are at 26-24, ninth. Both teams will need to adapt to their new rosters, but the high stakes make the situation even more intriguing.
While LeBron and Doncic’s partnership is being closely watched, the Lakers must also manage Doncic’s health and happiness as they aim to build a championship-caliber team.
For Dallas, the addition of Davis’ elite defense adds a new dimension to their championship aspirations. Both teams have major adjustments to make, and the NBA world is watching closely to see how this trade unfolds.
