After seven straight wins, Lakers’ Luka Doncic credits Slovenia trip for strong team chemistry
A summer of major change
Los Angeles entered the season with nine new players after a major summer rebuild. LeBron James also left in free agency, prompting questions about whether Doncic could keep the team competitive.
Many pundits and experts viewed the Lakers as a borderline playoff team. The team has instead opened at 11-2 and is riding a seven-game winning streak, despite a schedule described as soft.
Building bonds in Slovenia
Doncic hosted the Lakers in his home country for five days this past summer. Cameron Carr was the only player who did not join the trip. The team went to bond and hold a minicamp, with the new arrivals making time together a priority. After Wednesday’s win, Doncic credited the trip with helping the group become close.
Doncic leads the charge
The Lakers’ strong start has been driven in large part by Doncic’s play. He is averaging 38.6 points per game, the league’s highest mark, plus 7.5 rebounds and 7.6 assists while shooting 48.9% from the field.
Doncic scored 32 points in consecutive games against the Hawks and Bucks before his numbers dipped. FanDuel lists him second in NBA MVP odds at +155, behind Spurs center Victor Wembanyama at +150.
Key points
- The Lakers are 11-2 and have won seven consecutive games.
- Doncic hosted a five-day Slovenia trip and minicamp to help the roster bond.
- Doncic leads the league with 38.6 points per game.
- FanDuel places Doncic second in MVP odds at +155.