Luka Doncic Supports Lakers' Patient Trade Deadline Approach

Lakers superstar agrees with team's focus on long-term picture over short-term moves.

Feb. 20, 2026 at 8:07am

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Despite numerous trade rumors, the Los Angeles Lakers were relatively quiet at the NBA trade deadline, making just one minor deal. However, their newest superstar, Luka Doncic, reportedly supported the team's patient approach, preferring they focus on the long-term picture rather than pushing for a short-term superstar addition.

Why it matters

The Lakers' priority is now building around Doncic, not LeBron James, as the 26-year-old Slovenian has become the face of the franchise. Doncic's approval of the team's trade deadline strategy signals he is on board with the organization's long-term vision.

The details

The Lakers' lone trade deadline move was sending Gabe Vincent and a second-round pick to the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for Luke Kennard. A source told ESPN that Doncic supported the team's "adherence to discipline" and focus on the "long-term picture" over pursuing a big-name addition to pair with the aging LeBron.

  • The NBA trade deadline passed on February 9, 2026.

The players

Luka Doncic

The 26-year-old Slovenian superstar who was recently acquired by the Los Angeles Lakers and is now the face of the franchise.

LeBron James

The veteran Lakers superstar who is set to become a free agent after this season.

Gabe Vincent

A player the Lakers traded to the Atlanta Hawks at the deadline.

Luke Kennard

The player the Lakers acquired from the Hawks in exchange for Gabe Vincent and a second-round pick.

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What they’re saying

“A source familiar with Doncic's thinking told ESPN that L.A.'s deadline approach with 'adherence to discipline' and focus on the 'long-term picture' was supported by the 26-year-old star. He has not pushed the team to add a superstar-level co-star for when (LeBron) James is no longer on the roster.”

— Source, Familiar with Doncic's thinking

What’s next

The Lakers will have significant cap space this offseason to pursue free agents and build around Luka Doncic as their new franchise centerpiece.

The takeaway

Luka Doncic's support for the Lakers' patient approach at the trade deadline signals he is aligned with the organization's long-term vision, prioritizing sustainable success over short-term moves. This bodes well for the Lakers' ability to build a championship contender around their 26-year-old superstar.