In a stunning turn of events, Luka Doncic’s move to the Los Angeles Lakers has sent shockwaves through the NBA, and Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George has added fuel to the fire with a bold claim on his “Podcast P with Paul George” podcast. George declared that Doncic, the Slovenian superstar, is on track to become the greatest European player in NBA history, surpassing legends like Dirk Nowitzki, Tony Parker, Hakeem Olajuwon, and even Giannis Antetokounmpo.
“We’re talking about being the biggest international player now,” George said. “That’s surpassing GOATs. That’s surpassing Dirk. That’s surpassing Tony Parker. That’s surpassing Hakeem. He’s got a chance to be the biggest international guy, surpassing Giannis in a way. He’s got a chance to be one of the best to ever do it. His game is just way older than what he is. He’s tough, man. He’s a problem. Big fan of Luka and he talk that s***, too.”
George’s comments, amplified by a widely shared post from ClutchPoints on September 11, 2025, have ignited debates across the basketball world. Fans and analysts alike are buzzing about whether Doncic, now the face of the Lakers, can live up to such lofty expectations.
Doncic’s recent performance at EuroBasket has only intensified the excitement surrounding his move to Los Angeles. Representing Slovenia, he played in seven games, delivering jaw-dropping averages of 34.7 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 7.1 assists while shooting an impressive 62.1% from two-point range. Though Slovenia fell to Germany in the quarterfinals, Doncic’s elite play showcased his ability to dominate on any stage, leaving Lakers fans eager for the 2025-26 NBA season.
His virtuoso performances in Europe have drawn praise from peers like George and left observers marveling at his veteran-like poise at just 26 years old. As George noted, “His game is just way older than what he is,” a testament to Doncic’s unique blend of skill, basketball IQ, and swagger.
Doncic’s trade to the Lakers from the Dallas Mavericks caught the basketball world off guard. Golden State Warriors star Jimmy Butler, in an interview with The National, expressed disbelief at the move, saying, “I thought it was fake like everybody else… When you use the word untradable, untouchable, you’d think Luka Doncic is one of those guys, honestly.” Butler hinted at behind-the-scenes factors, adding, “There’s always more to these stories. I don’t know, but I can guarantee you that there is more and there’s always reason behind everything.”
While the reasons for the trade remain speculative, the impact is undeniable. Doncic now anchors the NBA’s most storied franchise alongside LeBron James, forming a formidable duo that has positioned the Lakers as Western Conference favorites for the 2025-26 season. Lakers GM Rob Pelinka has bolstered the roster, and Doncic’s arrival has elevated expectations to championship levels.
Despite the excitement surrounding Doncic, the Lakers may not be done tinkering with their roster. According to NBA Insider Marc Stein in The Stein Line Newsletter, the Lakers are interested in adding a two-way swingman to complement their star-studded lineup. Stein specifically mentioned Andrew Wiggins as a potential target, noting, “League sources say L.A. would indeed have interest in adding a two-way swingman who can raise their ceiling. My read (if Miami were to make him available): Andrew Wiggins.”
A 3-and-D forward like Wiggins could be the final piece to complete the Lakers’ championship puzzle. With the February 2026 trade deadline approaching, Pelinka has time to explore options, but even without additional moves, the current roster—led by Doncic and James—appears poised to compete at the highest level.
Paul George’s bold prediction places immense expectations on Doncic, who still has much to prove before being crowned the greatest European player ever. An NBA championship would go a long way toward solidifying his place among the all-time greats. If his EuroBasket performance is any indication, Doncic is ready to lead the Lakers to contention.
As the 2025-26 season approaches, the NBA world is watching closely. Doncic’s move to the Lakers, combined with George’s ringing endorsement, has set the stage for a defining chapter in his career. Can he live up to the hype and bring a championship to Los Angeles? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the basketball world is in a frenzy, and Luka Doncic is at the center of it all.