Luka Doncic knows what fans and critics say about his game: smooth, skilled, dominant — but slow. Now with the Lakers, the superstar guard dropped a quote on the Mind the Game podcast that’ll turn some heads:
“I have speed, I just don’t show it.”
Classic Luka. And honestly, it checks out. Despite not having the typical burst you expect from elite guards, Doncic averaged 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, 7.5 assists, and 1.6 steals last season. The man’s a walking triple-double threat who moves at his own pace — and somehow makes everyone else adjust to him.
Co-host Steve Nash, a Hall of Famer who knows a thing or two about elite playmaking, pointed out that teams like the Thunder have struggled to speed Doncic up. Luka took them out in the 2024 playoffs and nearly did it again this year.
But while his controlled tempo works wonders on offense, defense is another story. Doncic allowed more blow-bys than any other player in a playoff game this season — Game 5 vs. the Timberwolves was rough. That “hidden speed” might be something the Lakers are hoping to see more of when he’s guarding someone.
Still, Doncic’s brain might be his fastest weapon. Nash praised his “late pass” skill — waiting until the last possible moment to dish to a shooter. Luka says that’s something he’s developed over time, reminding teammates to trust he knows where they are even after he leaves his feet.
LeBron James also chimed in with major respect, complimenting Doncic’s ability to control the game’s rhythm — something LeBron’s mastered over the years. Their chemistry came quicker than expected after Luka was traded from Dallas, and with a full offseason ahead, next year could be scary.
Doncic summed it up best:
“I’m athletic in different ways they don’t see. Not everything is jumping and running fast.”
He may not show his speed often — but he sure makes everyone else chase him.
“I Have Speed”: Luka Doncic Drops Surprise Claim About His Game
