Jovan Buha reported on Buha’s Block that 'Luka [Doncic] has worked next to secondary ball handlers and playmakers and scorers with defensive limitations.' That is something that should not be considered speculation; in fact, it is history.
From Jalen Brunson to Kyrie Irving, Doncic has consistently played his best basketball alongside guards who can take pressure off him offensively, even if they are not elite defenders.
Austin Reaves' fit has had Lakers fans panicking
Since the shocking Doncic trade went down at last season’s deadline, fans have been quick to question the fit. Reaves is not a lockdown guard. He is not someone who will be able to consistently smother opposing guards or fix the defense on his own.
The thing is, he does not have to. What he brings in his scoring, secondary creation, and high IQ is exactly what has helped Doncic thrive in the past.
Mavericks history teaches a valuable lesson
Let's look back at Doncic’s past postseason runs with the Dallas Mavericks. The Mavericks made the Western Conference Finals with Brunson and the NBA Finals with Kyrie.
Neither was brought in for their defense. They were there to make plays and hit big shots when defenses collapsed on Luka. Reaves fits right into that mold, and you can argue he defends better than both of those guys.
Lakers must explore the Austin Reaves gamble
The Los Angeles Lakers have tough decisions ahead, especially with the chance of LeBron James moving on from Los Angeles. If the right trade opportunity comes up, especially for a versatile, defensive-minded forward, you must explore it. That is just part of the business.
But writing off the Doncic–Reaves pairing before they have even had a full season together? That is short-sighted.
They did not even get a training camp. They were thrown together midseason and still showed flashes of chemistry. Reaves is not afraid of the moment. He does not disappear next to stars. In fact, he tends to get better when the lights are brighter.
On top of all that, the truth is, the Lakers do not have to commit forever. If it does not work out, Reaves should have some really good trade value in 2026.
Doncic-Reaves pairing worth the investment
Doncic is still Doncic, one of the smartest offensive engines in the game. Reaves, meanwhile, brings exactly the kind of help Luka has always benefited from.
The Lakers do not need to overthink this. Give it time. Let them grow. The concern is understandable, but their ceiling together could be the real deal.