Lakers’ Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves chemistry has rival executive rethinking expectations

The Lakers changed nearly everything around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Keeping those two together appears to have given them a pretty good starting point.

Their 10-2 start has surprised at least one Eastern Conference executive, who spoke with Eric Pincus of Casino.org about the unexpected success of both the Lakers and Warriors.

“I never envisioned the [Los Angeles] Lakers and Warriors doing this!” the executive said.

The executive initially suggested continuity as an explanation. Pincus pointed out the obvious complication with that theory. The Lakers turned over nearly their entire roster.

The executive’s response focused on Doncic and Reaves, arguing that their connection and the atmosphere around the team have helped make the transition work.

That’s a more useful explanation than simply counting how many familiar faces returned. When the players directing the offense already understand each other, everyone else has a clearer idea of where to fit.

It doesn’t guarantee an easy adjustment. But it gives a revamped roster something established to build around.

Through 12 games, the Lakers have done that well enough to sit atop the Western Conference. Pincus noted that they were a half-game ahead of the Spurs, despite entering the season with considerable uncertainty following LeBron James’ departure.

The executive also cautioned against drawing firm conclusions this early. There’s a long stretch between a strong November and proving a roster can handle playoff opponents.

Still, the Lakers have already answered one significant question. They can win while incorporating all those new pieces.

That should give them a better foundation for evaluating possible trade additions. Instead of searching for an identity, they can look for players who strengthen what Doncic and Reaves are already making work.