Expectations are always high for the Los Angeles Lakers, and after acquiring star guard Luka Dončić last season, things are no different entering the 2025-2026 season.
With Dončić sporting a new look and perhaps in the prime of his career, those expectations are even higher. As James’ career winds down, the Lakers look to Dončić to become a leader and eventually replace James as the new face of one of the world’s most famous franchises.
Led by Dončić and LeBron James, the Lakers spent the offseason revamping their supporting cast, adding a former No. 1 overall pick, DeAndre Ayton, a much-needed upgrade at center, a former Defensive Player of the Year in point guard Marcus Smart and a three-point specialist in Jake LaRavia. LaRavia should help replace veteran Dorian Finney-Smith, who signed with the Houston Rockets this summer.
Ayton, the top pick in the 2018 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns, agreed to a two-year, $16,208,000 deal, while Smart signed a two-year deal worth $11,000,000, and LaRavia inked a two-year, $12 million contract.
What Did Jake LaRavia Say About Luka Dončić’s Leadership?
As James’ career winds down and with Dončić, who is sporting a new look, in perhaps the prime of his career, the Lakers are looking to Dončić to become a leader and eventually replace James as the new face of one of the world’s most famous franchises.
When LaRavia was asked about Dončić’s leadership while speaking to the media, he had nothing but good things to say about his new teammate.
“He’s a vocal leader but more so you just follow him because he’s Luka,” LaRavia explained. “You know what he does, you know who he is on the court and it’s easy to stand behind someone like – how talented he is, how good he is as a player.”
Jake LaRavia on Luka Doncic’s leadership: “You follow him because he’s Luka. You know what he does, you know who he is on the court” pic.twitter.com/yX3rKO6gpO
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) October 13, 2025
Although LaRavia admits Dončić has been vocal, he is clearly setting an example for his teammates. LaRavia is also excited about the prospect of playing alongside Dončić and what the two can do for each other this season.
“For me, I’m just trying to benefit him as much as a I can,” LaRavia said. “I think we’re gonna have a relationship, like you know I help him, he helps me, and we win games.”
LaRavia, who appeared in 19 games for the Sacramento Kings last season, averaged 6.1 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 19.3 minutes per game. He shot 43.8% from the field and 38.5% from three. With Dončić and James spreading the floor, the Lakers will count on LaRavia’s ability to knock down shots beyond the arc.
The Lakers will begin the regular season on Tuesday, Oct. 21, when they host Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors in the return of the NBA on NBC. Tip-off is scheduled for 10:00 p.m. ET.
