The newest Los Angeles Laker felt obliged to honor a franchise icon on his first day with the team.
“I just wanted Kobe and Gigi here to see this moment,” said Luka Doncic about Kobe Bryant and daughter Gianna, who were lost together with seven others in the tragic 2020 helicopter crash in South California.
Doncic's introductory message met the right note with Lakers fans, who have immortalized both Kobe and Gianna.
“Kobe would be happy to see this guy in purple and gold,” wrote a fan, referring to the Lakers color scheme.
Doncic arrives in Los Angeles after the blockbuster on Saturday evening three teams that sends the 25-year-old Slovenian superstar to the Lakers. Power Forward Anthony Davis goes to the Dallas Mavericks, the former Doncic team, past guard Max Christie and a future first round pick. In the meantime, the Utah Jazz Jalen Hood-Schifino van de Lakers, the 2025 second round pick from De La Clippers and the selection of the MAVs 2025 Second round.
The deal was a shock for just about everyone, from LeBron James and Lakers coaches, to the stupidity of Mavs fans and even Doncic itself. The 6-foot-7-point guard reportedly recently bought a house in Texas of $ 15 million and admitted on Tuesday that he had never proposed to leave Dallas.
Doncic will be released on Tuesday with his new coach – and former MAVS teammate – JJ Redick
Luka Doncic and Kobe Bryant Chat after a 2019 match in La shortly before the tragic crash
Bryant and daughter Gianna were both honored by Doncic at his Lakers revelation on Tuesday
“I thought I would stay there my entire career,” Doncic said Tuesday. 'Loyalty is a big word for me … but I have the ocean here. I can play for the Lakers. That can't say much. '
Regarding when Doncic will make his Lakers debut, the All-Star remains hindered by a calf number.
Speaking with reporters in Los Angeles on Tuesday, Lakers General Manager Rob Pelinka said that the team will collaborate with Doncic's personal trainers and marketing staff to ensure that he returns safely to the court.
“We have five in five planned tomorrow for Luka,” said Pelinka. “We're going to take it one day at the same time.”
Doncic was also asked to play for Lakers-Coach JJ Redick, a one-off teammate of him on the Mavericks … and a former Podcast-Gastheer.
“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 am really excited that I can play for him. '
Redick organized the popular show, old man and the three, before they became the Lakers head coach before the 2024-25 season.
