Lakers face Luka Doncic ‘malpractice’ warning as trade likelihood reaches 65%

The Los Angeles Lakers have been warned that failing to strengthen their roster around Luka Doncic would be a major mistake, with NBA insider Jovan Buha putting the chances of a trade at 65 per cent.

The Lakers have made an impressive 6-2 start to the season, largely thanks to Doncic's outstanding form. However, questions remain over their depth, particularly at centre and on the wing.

With the Western Conference looking increasingly competitive, Los Angeles could look to make additions before the trade deadline to improve its championship chances.

Jovan Buha says Los Angeles Lakers would be making a mistake by not trading

Speaking on his podcast, Buha's Block , the insider explained why the Lakers need to take advantage of Doncic's current form rather than leave gaps in the roster.

"If the Lakers don't make a move and don't try to improve this roster, it would be, to quote you, malpractice," Buha said. "I just think that would be a giant mistake having Luka in his prime, potentially the best season of his career, and to not improve a couple of holes in the roster."

Buha believes Los Angeles has a strong opportunity to compete in the West and should be prepared to act.

"Odds of making a trade, I would say like 65% right now," he added.

However, the insider does not necessarily expect the Lakers to make an immediate move. He suggested the franchise could wait until it has a clearer understanding of its rotation and where the biggest problems lie.

"If someone goes down, maybe there's a different need, or there's some urgency to do something, or if they just continue to struggle to navigate some of these bench groups, maybe they feel some urgency to get a center at some point in December," Buha said.

The Lakers have reportedly been looking for another centre to provide cover behind Walker Kessler, while an upgrade at starting forward is also among their priorities.

Doncic's form makes the situation particularly important. He is averaging 38.3 points, 8.1 assists and eight rebounds per game, putting himself firmly in the MVP conversation.

There is also a longer-term consideration. Doncic's current contract could run through 2028 or 2029, depending on his player option, and ESPN's Brian Windhorst has previously highlighted the importance of keeping the Lakers in a strong position to secure an extension.

For Rob Pelinka and the front office, the challenge is finding the right additions without rushing into a deal. But Buha's warning makes one thing clear: the Lakers cannot afford to waste Doncic's current form.