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Luka Doncic enters the 2026-27 season with sky-high expectations, though he is well aware that building on-court chemistry with an overhauled roster will take time.
"Some things you figure out sooner, some later. I feel like we had a great practice," the Slovenian star said. "I think we have great players. Austin and I are leading the way, so to speak. We have a lot of underrated guys who can make huge strides on both offense and defense, and that's why I'm really excited."
Doncic is also eager to share the floor with Walker Kessler, whose sheer size and vertical presence alter the team's spacing.
"You just throw it up, and he's there! That helps us a lot."
When asked who would fill the remaining two spots in the starting five, Doncic deferred to the head coach, emphasizing that lineup decisions are Redick's job.
The European Connection
The Lakers are leaning heavily into international basketball IQ this season. Much like Doncic, Sandro Mamukelashvili was molded by the European developmental system.
"It gives you tremendous confidence," Mamukelashvili said after Wednesday's practice, reflecting on how much Redick values his versatility. "He believes in me. He knows that, simply put, I can just be a basketball player out there without needing to be boxed into a single role."
While the Lakers' offense will look noticeably different from last season, defense remains the top priority. Mamukelashvili described the first two days of camp as a relentless battle.
"It was extremely tough. We were pushing, bumping, and just trying to help each other get better."
Having developed his game in Italy and Georgia, "Mamu" modeled his playstyle after Croatian legend Toni Kukoc.
"He spaced the floor and was a hell of a passer. Ever since I was a kid, I tried pulling off little magic tricks with the ball—I just love dishing out assists," Mamukelashvili concluded.
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