Kendrick Perkins, former NBA player and current analyst, has recently expressed his belief that Luka Doncic is poised to claim the 2025/26 MVP award, positioning him as a strong contender against the legendary LeBron James. Perkins highlighted Doncic’s renewed commitment to his physical and professional development, suggesting that this could lead to a standout season for the young star as he joins the Los Angeles Lakers.
At just 26 years old, Doncic has been a hot topic in offseason discussions, not only for his impressive on-court performance but also for his emerging leadership qualities. After a tumultuous exit from the Dallas Mavericks, Doncic is looking to elevate his game in Los Angeles, where he is expected to play a crucial role alongside LeBron James and Austin Reaves.
Perkins noted that Doncic has taken an active role in team building, aiding in the recruitment of key players like Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart. This proactive approach could be pivotal for the Lakers’ success. “I’m betting on Luka Doncic to win the MVP next season,” Perkins stated during an ESPN segment. “This is the type of commitment that I want to see from a great player like Luka. All the greats in history have faced adversity and taken accountability. We’re witnessing that growth in Luka right now.”
As the Lakers navigate the transition from the LeBron James era to a new chapter led by Doncic, comparisons between the two stars are inevitable. In the 2024/25 NBA season, fans witnessed a direct matchup between them, with Doncic posting remarkable averages of 33.9 points, 9.8 assists, and 9.2 rebounds per game. Meanwhile, LeBron, even as he enters his 21st season, contributed significantly with averages of 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.3 rebounds per game. Statistically, Doncic led the Lakers in every major category, marking a shift in team dynamics, but LeBron’s performance remains impressive as he approaches his 41st birthday.
Doncic’s offensive versatility and playmaking skills are set to be the foundation of the Lakers’ strategy moving forward. However, what truly distinguishes Doncic as he heads into the new season is his renewed focus on conditioning—a facet of his game that has previously drawn criticism. The Lakers organization has responded to their star players’ needs by adding defensive stalwart Marcus Smart and center Deandre Ayton, aiming to create an environment where both stars can flourish and drive the franchise forward.
In addition to bolstering their veteran roster, the Lakers are also investing in young talent. Recently, they signed guard Chris Manon to a two-way contract following his impressive Summer League performance with the Golden State Warriors. Manon averaged 9.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.6 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game across seven contests, showcasing his potential. The team also re-signed Christian Koloko, leaving one additional two-way spot open on their roster.
As the Lakers gear up for the upcoming season, the dynamics between LeBron James and Luka Doncic will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike. With Perkins backing Doncic as a frontrunner for MVP, the anticipation builds around how this new partnership will shape the Lakers’ future. The blend of experience and youthful energy could be the key to the franchise’s success as they aim for another championship run.
In conclusion, the 2025/26 NBA season promises to be an exciting one for the Los Angeles Lakers, with Luka Doncic and LeBron James at the forefront. As Doncic continues to develop into a leader and a formidable player, the potential for him to claim the MVP title adds an intriguing storyline to the season. Fans eagerly await the unfolding drama as these two basketball icons compete not just for personal accolades but also for the ultimate team success.