Los Angeles Lakers Go Global to Keep Luka Doncic Happy, Sending Assistant Coach to Slovenia to Support the Superstar | NBA News
The Los Angeles Lakers have taken extraordinary steps to ensure their superstar Luka Doncic feels valued and supported—efforts that recently included a coach traveling halfway around the world to make him happy and strengthen their bond.
Strategic Move: Greg St. Jean Joins Slovenia’s Staff
This summer, as Doncic prepares to represent Slovenia in the upcoming EuroBasket tournament, Los Angeles Lakers assistant coach Greg St. Jean has rejoined the Slovenian national team’s coaching staff as an assistant coach. This move is far from symbolic; it’s a calculated effort by the Lakers to maintain a close, daily connection with Doncic during a pivotal period in his career.By embedding a trusted Lakers staff member within Luka Doncic’s national team environment, the franchise demonstrates its commitment to his well-being and comfort, both on and off the court. This approach helps Doncic feel more at home in Los Angeles and reinforces his status as the face of the Lakers’ future.
Why This Matters for the Lakers and Doncic
– Personalized Support: St. Jean’s presence in Slovenia ensures Doncic receives consistent coaching philosophies and support, even while away from the Lakers during the NBA offseason.– Building Trust: The Los Angeles Lakers’ willingness to send a coach overseas signals trust and investment in Luka Doncic, which is crucial given the emotional and professional challenges he’s faced since his high-profile trade from Dallas.– Chemistry and Continuity: Maintaining daily contact with Doncic helps the Lakers foster chemistry and continuity, which are vital as they build around him as their new franchise cornerstone.
Background: The Lakers-Doncic Relationship
The Lakers’ acquisition of Luka Doncic was one of the most seismic trades in recent NBA history, fundamentally reshaping the team’s identity and future ambitions. Head coach JJ Redick, who shares a personal history with Doncic from their time as teammates in Dallas, has emphasized his desire to bring out the best in the Slovenian star. Redick and Doncic have built a relationship based on mutual respect, honesty, and direct communication—qualities that have helped Doncic adapt to his new environment and thrive as the Lakers’ primary playmaker.
A Broader Trend of Player-Centric Management
This move by the Los Angeles Lakers reflects a broader trend in the NBA, where franchises increasingly recognize the importance of emotional intelligence, individualized support, and cultural sensitivity when managing superstar talent. By prioritizing Luka Doncic’s happiness and comfort—even if it means sending a coach across continents—the Lakers are setting a new standard for how teams can nurture their most valuable assets.Also read: “Best Pure Scorer Ever”: Boston Celtics’ Paul Pierce Sparks Debate with Bold Self-Claim; LeBron James and Kevin Durant ReactThe Los Angeles Lakers’ decision to send Greg St. Jean to Slovenia is a clear demonstration of their commitment to Luka Doncic’s happiness and success. It’s a move that goes beyond basketball tactics, aiming to build trust, foster continuity, and ensure that Doncic feels truly at home as the centerpiece of the Lakers’ championship ambitions.
