In the wake of the monumental trade that sent Luka Dončić to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis, discussion was furious regarding the quick shift in the team’s dynamic.
But, most importantly, how will the new roster affect the position of LeBron James, the de facto axis of the Lakers? Amidst fan speculation and players sharing insights, one basketball analyst has made his stance clear and says King James is still the heart of the Lakers.
Alan Hahn of ESPN Declares LeBron James Lakers’ True Leader
In a recent episode of ESPN’s “Get Up,” host Mike Greenberg posed a compelling question — following the blockbuster trade, who will be the true leader, the alpha of the Lakers — LeBron James or Luka Dončić? ESPN analyst Alan Hahn weighed in decisively, asserting that James remains the leader in the Lakers’ hierarchy.
He further clarified his stance, emphasizing that while James may encourage Dončić to play his game, it’s within the framework of James’ team dynamics. He stated, “If you say something in the huddle to a player, that’s you letting him know, letting Luka know, go ahead and be you, I am allowing it, so that’s what an alpha does; it’s my team, but I am allowing you to play your way. He will be in control.”
.@alanhahn says that LeBron is the alpha for the Lakers, not Luka 👀
"This is [LeBron's] ecosystem, and Luka has to figure out how he can play within it. … When he's on the team, it's still his team." pic.twitter.com/NnNZe9yFtG
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) February 19, 2025
The Slovenian sensation is already proving his worth with the Lakers, but Hahn believes everything still revolves around James.
“This is [LeBron’s] ecosystem, and Luka has to figure out how he can play within it. … When he’s on the team, it’s still his team,” Hahn suggested.
What Are James’ Thoughts on the Trade?
The pairing of James and Dončić brings together a blend of youth and experience. While fans and analysts may worry that Dončić’s arrival could challenge James’ role on the team, the King himself isn’t concerned in the slightest.
“If I had concerns, I would’ve waived my no-trade clause and got up out of here,” he said, according to senior reporter Vincent Goodwill.
Additionally, James noted that having Dončić on board has “given me energy,” suggesting that the acquisition has rejuvenated his enthusiasm for the game and motivated him to push further and try to win a fifth NBA championship. The 40-year-old backed down at the last minute during the All-Star game and was speaking ahead of the event.
LeBron says having Luka on-board has "given me energy," but as for the idea that a 25-year-old superstar teammate could extend his career even more than he'd thought a couple weeks ago: "we'll see what happens."
— Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) February 16, 2025
The Lakers’ decision to acquire Dončić aims to bolster their roster with a young, dynamic talent to complement James’ veteran presence. However, integrating two ball-dominant players presents challenges. Hahn’s comments suggest that, despite Dončić’s superstar status, the Lakers’ culture and leadership will continue to revolve around James.
