Colin Cowherd Questions Luka Doncic’s Consistency With Lakers, Compares His Form To Prime Mavericks Days

Cowherd questions Luka Doncic's consistency
Luka Doncic (Photo by Brad Penner/Imagn Images)

After a slow start with the Los Angeles Lakers, Luka Doncic has begun to show signs of improvement in recent games. However, with LeBron James sidelined for at least a few weeks due to a groin injury, the Lakers will need Doncic to step up as their primary leader.

However, some analysts are skeptical about whether he can consistently deliver at an elite level. On The Herd, Colin Cowherd compared Doncic’s current performances to his prime days with the Dallas Mavericks, questioning whether he can return to that level.

“We have to be honest about Luka; he has not been consistently great as a Laker. We know he’s playing himself into shape. We know he’s bad defensively,” Cowherd said.

Doncic’s struggles on defense have been a known issue throughout his career. But his offensive brilliance has usually overshadowed that weakness. With the Lakers, Luka is averaging 24.5 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 8.0 assists per game. However, Cowherd also expressed doubts about whether the Slovenian will be able to reach his peak form this season.

“But when I watch Luka, he doesn’t look like Luka two years ago. He’ll play himself potentially into it. I don’t think we’re gonna see the great Luka this year,” he added.

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Luka Doncic (Photo by Brad Penner-Imagn Images)
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The five-time NBA All-Star has already proven his dominance to Dallas Mavericks fans. Now, as a member of the Los Angeles Lakers, he has a new challenge to earn the trust and admiration of Lakers fans. Former NBA player Kendrick Perkins recently weighed in on the situation during First Take, sharing the pressure on Doncic and head coach JJ Redick.

“I will say this though. All eyes are on JJ Redick and Luka Doncic. Let’s see what you can do without LeBron James on the floor. Both of them,” Perkins said.

For Doncic, this is an opportunity to prove his value. If he can lead the Lakers to success, he’ll earn the respect of Lakers fans and silence any doubts about his ability to take charge of a franchise.

Also Read: Lakers Star Luka Doncic Holds Back After Calling Officiating “Not Fair” In Nets Game, Setting Social Media Abuzz