Following a blockbuster trade last February that reverberated across the basketball world, Luka Dončić has taken up residence in Los Angeles wearing the purple and gold. After a strong finish to last season and a proactive offseason, Dončić has played a pivotal role in restoring the Lakers to genuine title contention. As Los Angeles competes in the 2025-26 Emirates NBA Cup, we examine how the superstar guard’s arrival has reshaped the team’s trajectory and assess their chances of capturing hardware this year.
Body The seismic trade Dončić arrived in a monumental deal that sent Anthony Davis elsewhere, a transaction already regarded among the most consequential in recent memory. The reunion of Dončić and LeBron James became an immediate focal point across the league and media outlets.
Immediate impact Even with a shortened debut campaign in Lakers colors, Dončić made his presence felt right away. Over 28 appearances last season he averaged 28.2 points, 8.2 rebounds and 7.7 assists, signaling his capacity to transform the team’s on-court identity.
A start worthy of MVP talk This season Dončić has elevated his performance even further, leading the league with 35.2 points per game through his first 13 starts. His exceptional scoring and overall play have been central to Los Angeles’ impressive 13-4 opening and their push toward a top seed in the postseason.
Emirates NBA Cup mastery Dončić has been dominant during the NBA Cup run as well, helping the Lakers sweep their group with a flawless 3-0 slate. The most striking display came in the clincher against the Clippers when he poured in 43 points and dished out 13 assists.
Road to hardware Even with heavyweights such as the Oklahoma City Thunder posing major obstacles, the Lakers remain firmly in the conversation to win the NBA Cup thanks to Dončić’s leadership and production.
Luka Dončić’s move to Los Angeles has supplied the Lakers with a multifaceted superstar and sparked the start of an exciting new chapter for the franchise. Through elite scoring, elite playmaking and a clear desire to win, Dončić is positioned to guide the Lakers to a second Emirates NBA Cup and to chase another NBA championship.
