Luka Doncic has made headlines this summer, particularly after a stellar performance at EuroBasket 2025, where he dominated the scoring charts and showcased why many consider him one of the most talented players in basketball today. As the new NBA season approaches, Doncic is already being discussed as a leading candidate for the MVP award. However, an intriguing twist in his pursuit of this prestigious accolade lies in the presence of his teammate, LeBron James.
Veteran NBA reporter Mike Bresnahan recently highlighted this dynamic during a segment on Spectrum SportsNet, noting that while Doncic has a legitimate shot at the MVP title, he must contend with James, who remains a formidable force in the league. “I’m taking Luka Doncic, yeah. Which is a little crazy. And he has LeBron kind of pulling people away from the MVP vote,” Bresnahan stated, underscoring the complexities of the MVP race when two elite players are on the same team.
Last season, LeBron finished sixth in the MVP voting, despite the Los Angeles Lakers having a disappointing playoff run. This performance, coupled with his enduring reputation, means that if the Lakers have a successful season, many voters may feel inclined to recognize James for his contributions, potentially splitting the MVP votes between him and Doncic. Bresnahan emphasized this challenge, noting, “Considering that LeBron was what, sixth overall in MVP voting? Tough to say that last season.”
Despite the hurdles posed by James’s presence, Doncic has several factors working in his favor. His brief stint with the Lakers last season provided a glimpse of his potential impact over a full season. In 28 games, he averaged an impressive 28.2 points per game, significantly enhancing the team’s offensive capabilities. If he can sustain this scoring average over 70 or more games, his candidacy for the MVP award will be hard to overlook.
Moreover, Doncic’s recent commitment to the Lakers, highlighted by his purchase of a $25 million mansion, signals his long-term dedication to the franchise. This stability could bolster his performance, as he now knows he will be with the Lakers for several years, allowing him to focus on his game without the distraction of uncertainty.
As the season unfolds, the interplay between Doncic and James will be fascinating to watch. Both players possess the talent to dominate games, but their simultaneous pursuit of individual accolades could complicate matters. If the Lakers can secure a top-four finish in the Western Conference, Doncic’s MVP hopes could become even more realistic, despite the competition from his own teammate.
Ultimately, the 2023-2024 NBA season is shaping up to be an exciting one for both Doncic and James. As fans eagerly anticipate the action on the court, the MVP race will undoubtedly be a central storyline, with Doncic aiming to solidify his status as one of the league’s elite while navigating the complexities of sharing the spotlight with a legend like LeBron James.