Luka Doncic is putting together one of the best offensive seasons of all-time. However, the comparison he just drew from one NBA analyst was not about his scoring. It was about what happens when the ball goes the other way.
Luka Doncic’s defense drawing unwanted James Harden comparisons
On The Zach Lowe Show, Michael Pina brought up a version of James Harden that Rockets fans remember well. “Do you remember when Harden was in the ’17, ’18, ’16 era when he was a very good player, MVP candidate, ridiculous numbers,” Pina said. "But once a week there would be a meme where he would just glitch out on defense and just be standing still and action would be happening around him… That's happening with Luka quite a bit in a way.”
That is not a casual comparison. Harden won the MVP in 2017–18, averaging 30.4 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 8.8 assists. The production was undeniable. The defensive clips were, too.
Doncic’s numbers this season are even more impressive. He is averaging 32.6 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 8.6 assists. He leads the league in scoring and sits near the top in assists. Offensively, he bends games to his will. Few players can control tempo and space the way he does.
Pina did not just reference isolated possessions. He pointed to the contrast. For someone willing to take a tough, contested step-back three early in the shot clock while trailing, then turn around and show limited urgency on defense, it just simply is not a good look at all. That is where the frustration creeps in.
The Lakers do not have the defensive cushion to absorb those stretches. Austin Reaves is an offensive-minded guard. At 41, LeBron James has to manage his energy. The Lakers do not have a deep collection of defensive specialists to erase breakdowns. When Doncic is the point of attack and does not compete through it, the ripple spreads quickly.
None of this changes who he is offensively. He is one of the best players on the planet with the ball. But at the highest level, margins shrink. Being an average defender can be managed. Appearing disengaged cannot.
The Harden comparison lingers because it reflects a larger truth. Elite offense can carry you far. It can win awards. But for the Lakers to win consistently, especially in the postseason, their best player cannot be a player opponents circle as a defensive target.
No one is saying the Lakers need Doncic to become an elite stopper. They just need him to try, be engaged, and remove at least some doubt.