LeBron James was not at the Los Angeles Lakers’ press conference on August 2nd to celebrate Luka Doncic's massive new extension, but his presence was still felt.
According to Marc Stein of The Stein Line, “LeBron and son Bronny James were noticeably not in attendance at the news conference. But I’m told that LeBron FaceTimed Doncic on Saturday morning to congratulate him on the new deal.”
LeBron’s congratulatory FaceTime shows his support for Doncic
That is not nothing. Especially coming from someone who has spent over two decades navigating the spotlight, the expectations, and the weight of being the face of a franchise.
Doncic’s three-year, $165 million extension marked a new chapter for the Lakers. It was the kind of move that required a big moment, and it got one.
Front office heavy hitters like Rob Pelinka, Jeanie Buss, and new ownership figure Mark Walter were there. Teammates Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart, and even Maxi Kleber made the trip. The celebration moved from the presser to Las Vegas, where the team hit a Backstreet Boys concert at The Sphere.
Luka Dončić enyoing Backstreet Boys concert 🎤
TikTok/Marissa Torrez pic.twitter.com/eTSgZlQoN8
— Luka Updates (@LukaUpdates) August 3, 2025
LeBron understands that showing up is not always about being physically in the room. Sometimes, a quiet, direct message says more, especially to someone like Doncic, who is already carrying enormous expectations.
The absence should not take away from the moment; if anything, his private gesture is something more meaningful. He has done this before. He has lived through massive press conferences, high-profile roster moves, and the pressure of being the guy in Los Angeles. Doncic’s now taking that on.
Doncic is not new to being the focal point. From playing for Real Madrid at the age of 13 to the NBA Finals with Dallas in 2024, he has already navigated pressure most players do not see for years.
Now in Los Angeles, he is already stepping into that leadership role. He has made recruiting calls, and he has come into the offseason in better shape than ever.
Chemistry is not automatic, even with two all-time talents. It takes time and trust. And that is what made James' quiet gesture so important. It was not just a courtesy; it was a sign that he is willing to invest in this partnership, even if the spotlight now shines a little brighter on someone else.
If the Lakers want to contend for a title this year, it will not be because of talent alone. It will be because their two biggest stars are on the same page, leading together, and believing in the same vision.