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Before Luka Doncic plays a single NBA game this season, the Los Angeles Lakers have already sent a clear message, which entails that they are fully committed to keeping him happy.
That message came through loud and clear when Lakers governor Jeanie Buss and GM Rob Pelinka flew to Poland to attend Slovenia’s practice during EuroBasket 2025. The decision to do this was not just to watch, but to show up for Doncic. And that kind of support does not go unnoticed.
“We just wanted to make a statement to Luka that we support what he does for his country,” Pelinka told The Athletic. “That’s really important to the Lakers when we have a player that’s the face of our franchise, just to show that support for him.”
There is a long-standing tension in the NBA when it comes to international play. Some teams get nervous. Injuries, schedule conflicts, and added miles it is all real concerns.
For Doncic, playing for Slovenia is not negotiable. It is part of who he is. And now that he’s in Los Angeles, fresh off signing a 3-year, $165 million extension, the Lakers are not just allowing it. They are embracing it.
Pelinka added: “It’s just great to see him with his teammates, interacting, having fun… He is in great shape, really committed to working hard this summer, and to be able to watch that in person was worth flying over the ocean.”
It might seem like a small gesture, but actions like these build trust. Doncic has never hidden his love for representing Slovenia.
The Slovenian national team does not boast much NBA talent; in fact, Doncic is the only player on the roster with even a second of NBA experience. But he is still there, still competing, still showing up for his country.
Pelinka emphasized the balance the Lakers are trying to strike: “We want to let him focus and dedicate to this tournament…be able to play for his country with pride… he’ll turn his attention to the Lakers as soon as this tournament ends.”
That kind of flexibility and understanding does not go unnoticed by stars, especially one like Doncic, who just joined the Lakers after years of carrying the Dallas Mavericks. Luka, himself, stated that this gesture means a lot.
When Slovenia tips off Group D play against Poland on Aug. 28, Doncic will not just be carrying the hopes of his home country; he will be doing it with full support from the city he now calls home.