Jeanie Buss Excited Luka Doncic Joins Lakers

Lakers owner believes Kobe Bryant would be thrilled to see Doncic on the team.

Apr. 20, 2026 at 2:30pm

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Los Angeles Lakers owner Jeanie Buss expressed excitement over the team acquiring star player Luka Doncic, saying she believes the late Kobe Bryant would be thrilled to see Doncic now playing for the Lakers. Buss noted Doncic's immediate impact, including leading the league in jersey sales and scoring.

Why it matters

The addition of Luka Doncic, one of the NBA's brightest young stars, is a major coup for the Lakers as they look to return to championship contention. Doncic's arrival also carries symbolic significance, as he is seen as carrying on the legacy of Lakers legend Kobe Bryant.

The details

The Lakers acquired Doncic in a blockbuster trade during the offseason, sending several players and draft picks to the Dallas Mavericks. Buss said she knew Doncic was a great player, but was surprised by the immediate impact he has had, leading the league in jersey sales and scoring.

  • The Lakers acquired Doncic in a trade during the 2026 offseason.

The players

Jeanie Buss

The owner of the Los Angeles Lakers.

Luka Doncic

A star player who was recently traded to the Los Angeles Lakers.

Kobe Bryant

The late Lakers legend who played for the team for 20 seasons.

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What they’re saying

“I knew he was a great player, an All-Star, but the fact that he joins the Lakers and immediately becomes the number one selling jersey in the NBA, that he led the league in scoring. I knew he was going to be a great player, but I don't think anyone expected this kind of immediate impact.”

— Jeanie Buss, Lakers Owner

The takeaway

Luka Doncic's arrival in Los Angeles has generated significant excitement, both for his on-court talent and the symbolic connection to Lakers legend Kobe Bryant. The team and its fans are hopeful that Doncic can help lead the Lakers back to championship contention.