NBA

Jaden Hardy feels Luka Dončić has taken his leadership to another level this season

October 7, 2026

Jaden Hardy, the Los Angeles Lakers’ guard, has observed a noticeable evolution in Luka Dončić’s leadership since reuniting with the Slovenian superstar this offseason. After trading back to the Western Conference, Hardy—who spent the first 2.5 years of his NBA career alongside Dončić with the Dallas Mavericks—now serves as the franchise’s most experienced teammate with direct exposure to the point guard’s on-court influence.

In their second stint together, Hardy noted Dončić’s leadership has reached a new level, emphasizing clearer communication and a unified team focus. "He’s just taking it to another step," Hardy said, highlighting Dončić’s ability to elevate the entire roster while remaining true to his natural leadership style.

This season marks Dončić’s first full campaign without LeBron James, a shift that has placed greater responsibility on the 27-year-old to guide the Lakers, particularly with Austin Reaves as his primary on-court partner. The franchise has structured its roster around Dončić’s strengths, re-signing Reaves and acquiring Walker Kessler to complement his playmaking and defensive presence.

With a squad tailored to his game, the Lakers are poised for a breakout year as Dončić enters what could be his prime years.