The buzz around Luka Doncic‘s future with the Los Angeles Lakers has reached a fever pitch after the star guard was revealed as the first-ever guest on Mind the Game, the basketball podcast hosted by LeBron James and Steve Nash.
This surprise appearance, teased with a behind-the-scenes photo on social media, has fans speculating that Doncic may be more committed to the Lakers than previously believed.
Following the team’s first-round playoff exit, Lakers fans were left uncertain about what the future held, especially regarding Doncic, who arrived in L.A. via a blockbuster trade for Anthony Davis in February 2025.
Yet, his participation in a high-profile discussion with two of basketball’s most cerebral figures has been seen by many as a symbolic affirmation of his long-term intent.
“Look who we got on the pod tomorrow,” the Mind the Game account posted, featuring Doncic in-studio with LeBron and Nash.
With no other guests having appeared on the show before, the decision to welcome Doncic has added fuel to the belief that he’s being positioned as a central figure in the Lakers’ next chapter.
Lakers fans read between the lines
Reactions from fans were immediate and emotional, with many interpreting the podcast episode as a signal that both LeBron James and Doncic are aligning for a final push toward championship glory.
Comments like “Luka not going anywhere and ring #5 for Bron confirmed,” and “Omggg LeBron’s Last Dance… gonna be CINEMA” captured the mood of Lakers Nation.
There’s good reason for the optimism. LeBron, entering what could be his 23rd and final NBA season, has hinted at a farewell tour in 2026.
Doncic, meanwhile, has been working on his conditioning in Spain, reportedly slimming down ahead of a vital campaign that may define the Lakers‘ post-LeBron era.
In addition, new head coach JJ Redick is expected to lead a cultural reboot in Los Angeles, built around high-IQ basketball and elite player relationships.
Doncic‘s involvement in Mind the Game feels like a deliberate step in cultivating that vision, alongside two of the most respected minds in the game.
“3 of the best basketball minds the game has ever seen, the IQ is insane,” one fan wrote, while another added, “LeBron getting Luka on the pod? This is going to be great.”
The sense of shared purpose between the trio, both on and off the court, has only intensified speculation that Doncic will sign a long-term extension with the Lakers.
Though no official deal has been announced, the latest developments suggest a growing synergy between Doncic and the Lakers‘ franchise core.
As the 2025 offseason progresses, all signs point to Luka being a cornerstone of the Lakers’ future – and fans are dreaming of a storybook ending featuring one last championship run for LeBron, with Doncic leading the way.
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