Luka Doncic likened to Magic Johnson as Lakers surge in NBA season

Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic has been praised as a "Magic Johnson‑type" player by former Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle, who called him the most unique talent he has ever worked with. The comments come a year after Doncic signed a three‑year, $165 million extension and positioned himself as the franchise’s centerpiece.

During a dominant stretch in March, Doncic helped the Lakers post a 15‑1 record, averaging 37.5 points, 8.0 rebounds, 7.4 assists and 2.3 steals while shooting 49.2% from the field. He missed one game due to a suspension for a technical foul, and the team lost that outing. Rookie Washington Wizards guard AJ Dybantsa, the No. 1 pick in the 2026 draft, said he wants to test himself against Doncic on an "ISO island," citing the star’s ability to dictate the pace of play.

The praise and on‑court performance have cemented Doncic’s status as one of the NBA’s premier players.