Since acquiring Doncic in a blockbuster trade from Dallas earlier this year, Lakers management has shifted its focus to building around the 26-year-old Slovenian star. The change has been unmistakable in roster moves and in the way the organization communicates and plans for the future.

Evidence of this shift surfaced in May when Lakers GM Rob Pelinka and new head coach JJ Redick held a private dinner meeting with Doncic and his agent at a high-end West Hollywood restaurant. There, they outlined detailed strategies for the team’s direction, cap management, and pursuit of an “age-appropriate star” to pair with Doncic.

Notably, LeBron James was not invited to this meeting, nor was he consulted about the team’s future or the recent sale of the franchise to billionaire Mark Walter. In fact, when the Buss family finalized the sale, only Doncic was notified in advance—a move widely interpreted as intentional and symbolic of the Lakers’ new priorities.

LeBron Left Out and Left Frustrated

LeBron James, who turns 41 this year, is reportedly frustrated with how the Lakers have handled the transition. According to multiple reports, James was not offered a contract extension this offseason—a stark contrast to previous years when the franchise went to great lengths to keep him satisfied and engaged.

He also wasn’t given significant notice before the Lakers traded away to acquire Doncic, further fueling the sense that his influence within the organization is waning.

James’ camp has not been shy about expressing dissatisfaction. Rich Paul, James’ longtime agent, recently stated that LeBron “wants to compete for a championship” and will “evaluate what’s best for LeBron at this stage in his life and career.”

While James understands the Lakers’ desire to pivot to a younger superstar, sources close to him say the process has lacked the nuance and respect he expected after delivering a championship and four All-Star seasons in Los Angeles.

The Lakers’ Future Is Doncic

For the Lakers, the message is clear: the franchise is moving forward with Doncic as its foundation. Management has gone out of its way to make Doncic feel like the organization’s top priority, from exclusive meetings to strategic planning sessions focused on his long-term fit in Los Angeles.

With Doncic eligible for a massive contract extension next month, the Lakers are doing everything possible to secure his commitment and build a new contender around him.

Meanwhile, LeBron James faces an uncertain future in purple and gold. For the first time in his career, he seems to not be the face of his team’s plans.