HOT NEWS: Luka Doncic reveals biggest problem with Los Angeles after Mavericks-Lakers trade
In the aftermath of the blockbuster trade between the Dallas Mavericks and the Los Angeles Lakers, Luka Dončić has shed light on what may become the Lakers’ most pressing concern moving forward. While the deal has generated buzz across the NBA landscape, especially for the star power it involves, Dončić’s recent comments hint at a deeper issue within the Lakers’ post-trade dynamics: team chemistry and defensive identity.
The Mavericks-Lakers deal saw the Lakers send key defensive pieces and young talent to Dallas in exchange for an established scorer and playmaker to complement LeBron James and Anthony Davis. While this move was intended to strengthen the Lakers’ offense and push for a deeper playoff run, Dončić believes the Lakers may have sacrificed too much of their defensive core in the process.
“They got more talent on offense, no doubt,” Dončić said in a post-game interview. “But when we played them, you could feel the difference. They don’t have that same defensive energy anymore. It’s easier to get looks now.”
This observation from one of the NBA’s most intelligent offensive players raises questions about how the Lakers will balance their offensive firepower with their need to protect the rim and guard elite perimeter threats. Players like Jarred Vanderbilt and Austin Reaves—known for their hustle and perimeter defense—reportedly played a key role in the Lakers’ previous defensive schemes. Without them, the team’s defensive intensity appears to have dropped noticeably.
LeBron and Davis remain elite defenders in their own right, but the NBA’s modern game demands strong team defense across all five positions. Dončić’s comments highlight what analysts have been warning: a superstar-heavy roster without glue guys may struggle when it matters most, particularly in tight playoff games where defense often makes the difference.
The Lakers now face the challenge of rebuilding defensive chemistry while integrating their new acquisition. Coach Darvin Ham will need to find a way to keep the team defensively focused despite the offensive boost.
As Dončić aptly put it, “You can’t win a championship on talent alone. You need defense, communication, and guys who do the dirty work.”
Unless the Lakers find a way to restore that balance, the Mavericks may not be the only team exposing their newfound vulnerability.