Kendrick Perkins, former NBA player and current analyst, has publicly declared Luka Doncic as his top choice for the 2025/26 MVP award, tipping the Slovenian to establish himself at the Los Angeles Lakers.
Perkins pointed to Doncic‘s renewed commitment, both physically and professionally, as reasons why the Los Angeles Lakers star is primed for a stellar campaign alongside the likes of LeBron James and Austin Reaves.
The 26-year-old’s name has been swirling in offseason discussions, not only for his performance but also for his leadership as the guard looks to bring his A-game to LA shortly after a turbulent exit from the Dallas Mavericks.
According to reports, Doncic has taken a proactive role in team building, aiding in the recruitment of new additions such as Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart and for Perkins, this could potentially swing it.
“I’m betting on Luka Doncic to win the MVP next season,” Perkins said to ESPN. “This is the type of commitment that I want to see from a great player like Luka.
“And all the greats in the history of greats have went through some type of adversity, or went through some type of thing throughout their career where they had to have accountability for it, and we’re seeing that through Luka right now.”
Luka vs LeBron: Who leads the LA Lakers now?
As the Lakers continue to start of the transition from the LeBron James era into a new chapter led by Doncic, comparisons between the two stars are inevitable and in the 2024/25 NBA, fans got a chance for a direct look between the pair.
The European posted staggering averages of 33.9 points, 9.8 assists, and 9.2 rebounds per game, meanwhile, LeBron James, despite entering his 21st season, still managed to contribute 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.3 rebounds per game.
Statistically, Doncic led the team in every major category, marking a shift in hierarchy but LeBron isn’t too far behind as he prepares for his age 41 season, highlighting the Ohio-born player’s greatness and longevity.
Luka‘s offensive versatility and playmaking are now the Lakers’ foundation. But what sets Doncic apart going into the new season is his renewed focus on conditioning – a facet of his game that has often drawn criticism.
The Lakers organization has also responded in kind to the talented pair they possess by the addition of the defensive anchor, Marcus Smart, and the center, Deandre Ayton. The hope is this will allow both to thrive and drive the franchise forwards.
In addition to veteran reinforcements, the team is investing in young talent. On Thursday, Los Angeles signed the guard, Chris Manon, to a two-way contract following an impressive Summer League run with Golden State.
Manon averaged 9.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.6 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game across seven contests. The Lakers also re-signed Christian Koloko, with one more two-way spot still available on the roster.
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