Main Story

Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic’s friendship began with awkward silence after Doncic joined the Lakers. Shared humor, common interests and time together—including training camp and a team trip to Slovenia—helped the two become close friends and comfortable teammates.

By the Numbers
  • Reaves recalled that they sometimes passed without speaking when Doncic first joined the team.
  • Reaves joked that Doncic made 5 half-court shots in 30 seconds during a September media availability.
Yes, But

Their easygoing rapport offers a glimpse of team chemistry, but it does not predict how well any Lakers lineup will perform.

State of Play
  • Reaves has described Doncic as one of his closest friends, and the two now openly joke around.
  • Team activities in Slovenia gave the Lakers a chance to connect away from basketball.
Bottom Line

What began as uncertainty has grown into a close friendship—one that may help the Lakers feel more connected, even if on-court results remain the real test.