Luka to do 'whatever it takes' in LeBron's absence

LeBron James is expected to be sidelined to start the season as he recovers from sciatica on his right side, with his absence anticipated to last three to four weeks before a reevaluation. In response, Lakers' other superstar Luka Doncic stated that he does not feel compelled to increase his role during James' absence, emphasizing his focus on contributing to wins regardless of his output.

The Lakers have struggled in the preseason, going winless with losses to the Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors while playing without both James and Doncic. The team faces a busy schedule, including a rematch against Golden State on Sunday, followed by games against Phoenix and the Dallas Mavericks over the next four days, with Coach JJ Redick still determining Doncic's participation in these matches.

Doncic, who was a full participant in practice on Saturday, has had his workload managed throughout the week to reduce wear and tear after competing for Slovenia in EuroBasket this summer. Coach Redick plans for Doncic to play in two of the Lakers' remaining four preseason games to balance his readiness for the long season ahead.

Redick is tasked with adjusting the lineup in James' absence, noting that the starting lineup remains uncertain until James returns. Key players like Doncic, Austin Reaves, and Deandre Ayton are set to occupy three starting spots, while Redick evaluates options for the other two, considering Rui Hachimura's experience from last season and contributions from Jarred Vanderbilt, Jake LaRavia, and Marcus Smart, who is set to return from Achilles tendinopathy against the Warriors.

Redick is considering separate lineups and rotations for when James is playing versus when he is not, and Doncic mentioned that he and James have communicated frequently during practices to build team chemistry. For now, James will only be able to support the team vocally from the bench during games.