Maxi Kleber is impressed that Doncic has kept himself accountable for the Lakers' effort and defensive issues.
Upon JJ Redick's furious postgame rant last Christmas Day, the Los Angeles Lakers were shaken. And the one who stood up to shoulder the responsibility for the team's recent slide has been Luka Doncic.
The Slovenian superstar himself admitted that if the Lakers have to address their needed changes, especially on the defensive end, it all must begin with him.
As such, Lakers big man Maxi Kleber sees this as standout leadership and reflection from Doncic.
“It shows great character that he wants to take accountability," Kleber said on Sunday about Doncic's remarks. "He’s the head of the snake, so we all follow him.
"It's good for us to see him also step up in that sense and take ownership because that will help everybody else do the same and focus, especially with that effort on every possession."
From Dallas to Los Angeles, Kleber has been Doncic's teammate throughout the superstar's NBA career. And no one definitely understands Luka more than the German veteran.
As it is, Doncic has to put more effort and defensive emphasis on the Lakers. As the team's newest leader and face of the franchise, he needs to lead in strengthening LA's awful defense that ranks 26th league-wide (118.1).
Kleber and the Lakers can only hope that Doncic will be better defensively starting this weekend as they'll face the Sacramento Kings.
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