You can see the change without needing stats. Just watch a few plays, and the difference is clear.
Luka Doncic has the ball. He moves at his own pace, taking his time to evaluate the court, appearing to know how the play will unfold before anyone else.
That used to be LeBron James.
Now, James is more of an observer, waiting for the right moment rather than forcing the action. He’s still engaged but not controlling every second of the play. This change is subtle yet significant once you notice it.
Few have pointed this out. There were no special ceremonies, no big announcements. It just happened gradually and has remained the same. Doncic stepped up as the main playmaker. Now, it feels unusual when he isn’t.
The Los Angeles Lakers now revolve around Doncic.
Why Luka Doncic Leads the Lakers Now
The numbers confirm it. In March, Doncic averages around 30 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists per game. While not extraordinary, these numbers are above average. This is just his usual performance.
This makes Doncic challenging to write about. His stats don’t always stand out.
One game, he scores 26 points without much attention, weaving through defenders effortlessly. The next, he posts over 40 points, making it look easy. Just recently, he even scored 60 points against the Miami Heat.
Doncic is clearly in charge in Los Angeles.
His rise has helped James more than anyone else.
In the past, the approach was simple: when they needed a score, give it to James. He would handle the situation. This is no longer the case.
Doncic now orchestrates the game. He sets the tempo, controls matchups, and decides how the opposing defense responds. By the time James gets the ball, much of the work is already done.
This is new for James, especially as he ages, easing some of the demands on him.
He doesn’t have to shoulder the entire load for 48 minutes. Instead, he can move, cut, and wait for his moment to attack a defense that’s already adjusted to Doncic.
This version of James remains dangerous, likely even more efficient than before.
There’s also a bigger picture to consider.
Eventually, the Lakers will need to move on from James. That moment is approaching, and it’s not far off. The key question is how this transition will unfold, and it seems to be underway.
If James opts out, joins another team, or retires, the Lakers won’t be lost. They’re prepared to pass the reins to a player who has been leading for over a year.
James was their go-to for years. Now, he faces less pressure, gets better shot opportunities, and can choose his moments rather than forcing them in tight situations.
So, yes, this is Doncic’s team now. For James, this is likely the ideal scenario.