Luka Doncic honors icon Kobe Bryant at Lakers unveiling… but insists he thought he would never leave Dallas
The newest Los Angeles Laker felt obliged to honor a franchise icon on his first day with the team.
‘I just wish Kobe and Gigi were here to see this moment,’ Luka Doncic said of Kobe Bryant and daughter Gianna, who were lost along with seven others in the tragic 2020 helicopter crash in Southern California.
Doncic’s introductory message struck the right note with Lakers fans, who have immortalized both Kobe and Gianna.
‘Kobe would’ve been happy to see this guy in purple and gold,’ one fan wrote, referring to the Lakers color scheme.
Doncic is arriving in Los Angeles after Saturday night’s blockbuster three-team deal that is sending the 25-year-old Slovenian superstar to the Lakers. Power forward Anthony Davis is going to the Dallas Mavericks, Doncic’s former team, along guard Max Christie and a future first-round pick. Meanwhile the Utah Jazz received Jalen Hood-Schifino from the Lakers, the LA Clippers’ 2025 second-round pick and the Mavs’ 2025 second-round selection.
The deal was a shock to just about everyone from LeBron James and Lakers coaches, to dumbfounded Mavs fans, and even Doncic himself. The 6-foot-7 point guard reportedly purchased a $15 million Texas home recently, and admitted on Tuesday he never envisioned leaving Dallas.
Doncic appears with his new coach – and former Mavs teammate – JJ Redick on Tuesday
Luka Doncic and Kobe Bryant chat after a 2019 game in LA shortly before the tragic crash
‘I thought I was gonna stay my whole career there,’ Doncic said Tuesday. ‘Loyalty is a big word for me… But I got the ocean here. I get to play for the Lakers. Not many get to say that.’
As for when Doncic will make his Lakers debut, the All-Star remains hampered by a calf issue.
Speaking to reporters in Los Angeles on Tuesday, Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka said the team will work with Doncic’s personal trainers and marketing staff to ensure he returns to the court safely.
‘We have five on five scheduled tomorrow for Luka,’ Pelinka said. ‘We’re gonna take it one day at a time.’
Doncic was also asked about playing for Lakers coach JJ Redick, a one-time teammate of his on the Mavericks… and a former podcast host.
‘You don’t see me going podcasts,’ Doncic said. ‘I went on his podcast twice, so you know how much respect I have for him. So I’m really excited that I can play for him.’
Redick hosted the popular show, Old Man and the Three, prior to becoming the Lakers head coach before the 2024-25 season.
