Many thought the Los Angeles Lakers have what it takes to make a deep playoff run with Luka Doncic and LeBron James leading the show. While there were glaring gaps in the rotation, many thought the Purple and Gold would be able to ride on the coattails of their superstars as they face off against the best in the Western Conference.
While many saw the series between the Lakers and the Minnesota Timberwolves as a tight contest, many among the Lakers faithful believed that the team had the star power to overcome Anthony Edwards and the Wolves.
However, the gaps on their roster proved too much for the Lakers to overcome. It became clear by Game 4 that the Purple and Gold’s reliance on star power was going to be their undoing. Their fate was sealed as the Timberwolves overturned many Lakers in five memes and took the series at the Crypto.com Arena.
With the season now officially over for the Lakers, Charles Barkley took it as the right time to call Doncic out for failing to lead his new team in the postseason.
Charles Barkley blames Luka Doncic’s conditioning for the Los Angeles Lakers’ first-round loss
The Round Mound of Rebound called Doncic out on NBA on TNT, saying that a player of Doncic’s stature should have played better in the series clincher when he’s getting an insane amount of money.
Per Basketnews.com:
“You’re an elite player and you’re getting ready to get 300-400 million dollars, you gotta get in shape to earn that money. He can’t guard anybody,” Barkley said. “Luka can’t guard a chair.
“He gotta learn to play defense and get in shape,” Chuck added. “Try getting in shape first, and then it would help.”
Arguments about Doncic’s poor conditioning probably won’t stop popping up until he shows up to the regular season in the best shape of his life. His condition was used as one of the primary reasons for his bombastic trade from Dallas, and these points will continue to persist.
However, it’s not like Doncic had a terrible game. Luka finished the 103-96 loss with 28 points, seven boards, nine assists, and one steal. Even if he’s not playing at his best, having such numbers is a testament to his talent.
Of course, having a center would have changed the complexion of the series. However, it’s also true that Doncic playing at the best of his abilities would have made a world of difference for the Purple and Gold.
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