LeBron James Declares Luka Doncic Lakers Franchise Player, Will Bend Game Around Him

LeBron James made clear the Los Angeles Lakers' hierarchy following Tuesday's 111-103 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. The four-time champion said Luka Doncic represents the franchise's future and that veteran players must adjust their approach to accommodate the 26-year-old star.

"Luka don't need to bend his game," James said. "Luka is our franchise for this ballclub. He don't need to bend this game. It's up to us to bend our game around him and figure it out."

The comments from James address concerns about whether two ball-dominant stars could coexist effectively. Critics questioned if James would defer to Doncic after the trade brought the Slovenian superstar to Los Angeles.

"I just don't think people watch basketball," James said Tuesday in New Orleans.

James and Doncic each scored 30 points against the Pelicans, marking their seventh win this season when both score at least 25 points. The duo became the fourth pair in the league this season to finish with at least 30 points and eight assists each. James finished with eight assists while Doncic recorded 10 assists, with three going to James.

Doncic acknowledged the growing comfort level between the two stars. The pair have played just eight games together this season after appearing in only 21 games last year.

"Me understanding what he wants, him understanding what I want," Doncic said of their developing chemistry.

"He's been absolutely amazing. Just helping me out, helping others out, being super efficient on the field goals," Doncic said of James. "But yeah, that's Bron. He can do anything. Just really appreciate him. Like I said, when we're out there, I think we're both - we are playing better with each other, game by game. And this is just going to be improving more."

JJ Redick expressed enthusiasm about the evolving partnership between his two franchise players. An injury to Austin Reaves on Christmas has accelerated the on-court development between James and Doncic.

"I love what's happening right now with Luka and LeBron and that partnership," Redick said. "There's some real synergy happening right now, and it's fun to watch."