What happens to the Lakers after LeBron James retires? We might have Anthony Davis, but who’s going to help him? That’s a question on the franchise’s mind as they prepare for a future without Bron. Speculations amidst this grow about potential stars to be added, including Luka Doncic. However, the 7X champion, Robert Horry, believes that a trade for Doncic might not be the real solution the Lakers need.

Robert Horry has voiced doubts about Luka Doncic‘s fit with the Lakers, citing concerns about his defense and fitness, which he believes could hinder the team’s success post-LeBron. “You gotta think about this. Luka’s be gonna how old? Like 31, 32? … He ain’t the best defensive player now and that’s the Lakers’ problem! You got to have some athletic guys that can play some defense and Luka, he can score the best of them, but we also know you got to take beers out of his hand, because he ain’t the one that stay in shape!” Horry said hilariously in the latest episode of Bog Shot Bob Podcast. 

Even while Doncic is known for his remarkable scoring abilities, his defensive limitations are reflected in his fluctuating defensive rating. His defensive rating peaked at 113.3 in the 2022-23 season but slightly dipped to 112.6 last season. Despite these challenges, the Mavericks ranked second in team defensive rating (107.3), with Doncic leading the pack among players with a 102.5 rating in the regular season’s final month.

And as for the beer comment, Doncic is known to enjoy a celebratory drink. After the Mavericks clinched their Finals spot for the first time since 2011, the 5x All-Star celebrated with a beer, only for Mavs executive Michael Finley to swipe it from his hand playfully, opting instead for a hug with Doncic’s father, Sasa. Needless to say, the lighthearted moment made for some quality entertainment.

While Horry said it humorously, we cannot deny that the man does have a point.

The way forward for the Lakers is through Anthony Davis… is it, though?

LeBron James can practically do everything on the court. And more importantly, he wanted to be a Laker. As Jenners pointed out, “This was his move as much as anybody’s.” That there is a difference. Coming to a team because they offer a boatload of money and coming to a team because it is the place you actually want to make a world of difference.

This is why Robert Horry believes that Anthony Davis would benefit from building relationships around the league. “You better hope AD make some friends around the league,” Horry advised. Strong connections could be crucial for future success, beyond just money and the Lakers’ storied history. However, Shaqcast co-host ‘B-Dog’ Brandon Harper doubts Davis’s ability to carry the team, questioning whether he’s the right choice for a leadership role.

“I don’t know… AD will be 30. Well, he is 30!” Technically, the 6’10 forward is 31. So, yes, the age is a valid concern. Add the injury history to his case as the next leader and you have a … well, a not-so-solid case. There’s no doubt that Anthony Davis can be a solid secondary superstar, the Robin to Batman. The 9x All-Star’s defense, rebounding, and scoring around the rim are elite. But there’s a reason why he has yet to win the DPOY. And it’s not a lack of skills.

So, in short, the Lakers’ future after LeBron James is, in a word, uncertain. Of course, a lot of things can happen between now and then. But one thing seems to be certain – Luka Doncic is not the solution. Or as Horry puts it, “He gonna be good but he ain’t gonna be what you need.”

 Before you go, do not forget to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Asia Avinger.