Newest Laker and Former Maverick Compares Luka Dončić and LeBron James

Dorian Finney-Smith, a recent addition to the Los Angeles Lakers, has shared fascinating insights about two of the NBA’s biggest superstars—Luka Dončić and LeBron James. Having spent years playing alongside Dončić with the Dallas Mavericks, Finney-Smith is now preparing to team up with LeBron in Los Angeles.

In a recent interview, he compared the two generational talents, discussing their similarities, leadership styles, and what makes each of them special. His unique perspective provides a compelling look at how Dončić, one of the league’s brightest young stars, stacks up against LeBron, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time.

The Similarities Between Luka Dončić and LeBron James

Finney-Smith, who was part of the Mavericks organization from 2016 to 2023, had a front-row seat to Dončić’s rise to superstardom. Now that he’s with the Lakers, he’s seeing firsthand what it’s like to play alongside LeBron James. According to Finney-Smith, there are striking similarities between the two players.

“They both see the game at an elite level,” he said. “The way they read defenses, the way they create shots for teammates—it’s special.”

Both Dončić and James possess an advanced basketball IQ, an uncanny ability to anticipate plays before they unfold, and a knack for making teammates better. Their playmaking skills set them apart from most other scorers in the league.

• Court Vision & Playmaking: Both players are exceptional passers, often making jaw-dropping assists that few others in the league would even attempt. Whether it’s Dončić orchestrating the Mavericks’ offense with dazzling no-look passes or LeBron threading the needle in transition, their ability to distribute the ball is elite.
• Scoring Ability: While LeBron has historically been a more athletic and dominant finisher at the rim, Dončić’s game relies more on skill, footwork, and finesse. However, both players have the ability to take over games with their scoring, whether by getting to the rim, pulling up for a deep three, or using their strength to overpower defenders.
• Leadership Qualities: One of the biggest parallels Finney-Smith highlighted is how both players command the attention of their teams. They both set the tone on the court, whether through their intensity, confidence, or ability to take control in clutch moments.

“Luka has that presence. He knows how to take over a game,” Finney-Smith said. “But LeBron, he’s been doing this for 20 years. He’s seen everything.”

While both players are floor generals, LeBron’s longevity and experience give him an edge in this category. However, Dončić, at just 24 years old, has already displayed a level of poise and leadership that is rare for a player of his age.

The Differences Between Luka and LeBron

Despite their similarities, Finney-Smith also pointed out that there are key differences between Dončić and James.

1. Athleticism & Playing Style

One of the most obvious distinctions is their athleticism.

• LeBron: Even at age 39, LeBron remains one of the most physically gifted players in the NBA. His combination of strength, speed, and explosiveness allows him to dominate in transition and attack the basket with authority. Throughout his career, he has been one of the best finishers at the rim, using his sheer power to bully defenders.
• Luka: Dončić, on the other hand, is not known for his athleticism. His game is built on skill, precision, and footwork. He relies on changes in pace, hesitation moves, and a deep bag of offensive tricks to create space and get to his spots. While he’s not an above-the-rim player like LeBron, he has developed one of the most effective offensive arsenals in the league.

“Luka isn’t going to jump over you, but he’s going to outthink you,” Finney-Smith explained. “LeBron, on the other hand, can still overpower guys even after all these years.”

2. Experience & Championships

Another key difference is experience.

LeBron James is a four-time NBA champion with 20 years of experience in the league. He has been to 10 NBA Finals and has led multiple teams to deep playoff runs. His knowledge of how to win at the highest level sets him apart.

Luka Dončić, while already one of the league’s top players, is still seeking his first championship. He has had impressive postseason performances, including leading the Mavericks to the Western Conference Finals in 2022. However, he has yet to reach the Finals, and some critics argue that he still needs to refine certain aspects of his game—particularly on the defensive end and in terms of conditioning—to take the next step toward becoming a championship-winning superstar.

“That’s where LeBron has the advantage,” Finney-Smith said. “He knows what it takes to win it all. Luka is still learning, but he’s on the right path.”

How Playing with Luka Prepares Finney-Smith for LeBron

Now that he’s a Laker, Finney-Smith believes that his experience playing alongside Dončić has prepared him well for his new role. Having played with an elite playmaker in Dallas, he knows what it’s like to be part of an offense where one superstar controls much of the action.

“Playing with Luka taught me how to move without the ball, how to find open spots, and how to stay ready because you never know when the ball is coming,” he said. “I think that experience will help me adjust to playing with LeBron.”

One of the biggest advantages of playing alongside great passers like Dončić and James is that they create high-quality shot opportunities for their teammates. Finney-Smith, known for his three-point shooting and perimeter defense, will likely benefit from the open looks generated by LeBron’s playmaking.

“Both of them make the game easier for guys like me,” Finney-Smith said. “When you’re playing with someone who sees the floor that well, you just have to be in the right spots.”

What This Means for the Lakers

With LeBron James still playing at an elite level and the Lakers adding key pieces like Finney-Smith, expectations are high for the upcoming season. The team is built around a mix of veteran experience and young talent, and the hope is that they can compete for another championship.

Meanwhile, Luka Dončić will continue to forge his own path in Dallas, looking to solidify his legacy and lead the Mavericks to a title of their own.

Finney-Smith’s perspective provides a fascinating glimpse into how these two superstars compare. While Dončić may be following in LeBron’s footsteps in some ways, he is also carving out his own identity as one of the most unique players in the league.

“Luka is the future of the league,” Finney-Smith said. “But LeBron, man… he’s still the king.”

As the Lakers prepare for another deep playoff run, Finney-Smith’s insights offer a reminder of what makes LeBron James so special—and why Luka Dončić may one day reach that same level.

This expanded rewrite provides more context, analysis, and insight into the comparison between Luka Dončić and LeBron James while incorporating Finney-Smith’s perspective. Let me know if you’d like any further refinements!