Luka Doncic, the star guard for the Los Angeles Lakers, continues to be one of the NBA’s standout players, but criticism around his defensive capabilities has intensified, notably from former champions and analysts.

Recently, seven-time NBA champion Robert Horry voiced skepticism about Doncic’s all-time great potential, centering his argument on Luka’s defense.

Horry’s Candid Take on Doncic’s Defensive Challenges

On The Travis and D’Marco Show, Robert Horry, a respected figure in basketball circles, openly stated that while he admires Doncic’s offensive talents, he doubts the Slovenian guard will ascend to NBA Mount Rushmore status.

“Luka would never make that,” Horry said bluntly. He emphasized defense as the defining trait of legends, pointing to icons like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Hakeem Olajuwon, Tim Duncan, LeBron James, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar—all known for their two-way dominance.

Horry believes that without matching defensive effort and impact, Doncic will fall short of joining that elite group.

Context of Defensive Criticism and Team Changes

Since his entry into the NBA as the third-overall pick in 2018, Doncic has been regularly critiqued for his defensive shortcomings. His trade from the Dallas Mavericks to the Lakers during the 2024-25 season was partially motivated by the Mavericks’ quest to improve defensively, leveraging Anthony Davis’s strong two-way play to bolster their frontcourt.

Although both teams have yet to achieve playoff success following the trade, Doncic’s defensive commitment remains a frequent talking point. Despite this, statistical glimpses from recent international friendlies and NBA games show an uptick in Doncic’s defensive activity, particularly in steals and blocks.

Luka’s Youth and Room for Growth

At just 26 years old, Luka Doncic is still evolving as a player. Horry’s perspective, while critical, acknowledges Luka’s youth and offensive greatness. There is widespread belief that Doncic has the potential to improve his defensive skills and become a more complete two-way player.

The acquisition of former Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart by the Lakers aims to reinforce team defense and support Luka’s growth on that end. For Lakers fans eager for playoff success, Luka’s development defensively will be a critical factor in their championship aspirations.

As the NBA heads into a new season, all eyes will be on Doncic to see if he can respond to the critiques and fine-tune the defensive aspects of his game.

His offensive brilliance is rarely questioned, but unlocking a true two-way presence could elevate him from a superstar player to legendary status. The journey promises to be a defining chapter in Luka Doncic’s career.