The Los Angeles Lakers are officially entering the post-LeBron James era, as he made his debut with the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday night. Now, all eyes are on Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves as they look to take the reins of the franchise.
Doncic saw some action during the preseason, but LA was primarily focused on keeping him rested for the regular season. It is also worth noting that Doncic received a technical foul during the preseason.
“Annnnnnnnd we have a preseason technical foul on Luka Doncic. You may recall Luka getting suspended for techs last spring,” The Athletic’s Law Murray wrote.
Doncic has enjoyed his first two seasons with the Lakers, and this one doesn't seem like it will be any different. The guard has been vocal this offseason about his feelings toward LA. Just hours before the team's season opener against the Golden State Warriors, Doncic sent a message to the fans.
“Dear LA, Tonight we start our run for a championship. Every player dreams of holding that trophy. To do it for all of you amazing fans would mean everything to us," Doncic said.
The superstar wants to give his all for the Lakers this season and prove he has what it takes to lead the team. Doncic is also aiming to play in every game this season. However, after he publicly made that goal clear, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst criticized him for how often he argues with officials.
“When you say 'I'm not gonna take a night off’, are you going to take possessions off because you're complaining to the officials,” Windhorst said.
Last season, Doncic was suspended for a game after exceeding the NBA's technical foul limit during the regular season. With the veteran already picking up a technical for arguing with a referee during the preseason, it highlights one of the biggest areas of his game that needs improvement.
Playing every night could increase the risk of accumulating more technical fouls, especially given his tendency to argue with officials. Doncic needs to show real growth in this area, particularly if he wants the Lakers to succeed this season.
