Sexton Praises Doncic's Leadership at Lakers Slovenia Minicamp

Los Angeles Lakers' new guard Collin Sexton expressed strong approval for Luka Doncic's leadership and the recent team minicamp in Slovenia, according to reports published today, September 6, 2026. This positive feedback highlights crucial early chemistry for the revamped Lakers roster ahead of the 2026-27 NBA season, marking a significant step in the club's post-LeBron James era.

The four-day minicamp, hosted by superstar Luka Doncic in his native Slovenia this past August, invited the entire Los Angeles Lakers roster to participate in a blend of on-court workouts, team bonding, and cultural activities. New acquisition Collin Sexton, joining a significantly retooled Lakers squad, reportedly 'had fun' at the event, a vital indicator of player integration and morale. This sentiment, widely reported today across sports outlets, suggests Doncic's proactive leadership is already yielding positive results.

The minicamp's timing, just weeks before official NBA training camps open, amplifies its significance. For a Lakers team that saw key departures like LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, and Marcus Smart, welcoming new talents such as Sexton, Walker Kessler, and Quentin Grimes required immediate chemistry building. Doncic, who personally chartered a plane for 14 people and provided lavish gift bags, underscored his commitment to fostering a cohesive unit, a detail highlighted by ESPN's Ramona Shelburne, who likened the luxurious trip to a 'bachelorette trip.'

This meticulously planned event solidifies Luka Doncic's transition into the undisputed leader of the Lakers. Following LeBron James' departure, the narrative around the franchise has shifted, and Doncic's initiative in organizing and funding the comprehensive team-building experience in Ljubljana is a clear statement about 'who this team belongs to now.' Beyond court drills, the itinerary included rounds of golf, tourism around Ljubljana, and charity visits, showcasing a holistic approach to team integration.

The Lakers finished the previous season with a respectable 53-29 record, securing the fourth seed in the Western Conference. However, their playoff run ended abruptly, swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second round after Doncic suffered a hamstring injury. With Doncic leading the league in scoring (33.5 PPG) and finishing fourth in MVP voting, his on-court prowess is undeniable. Now, his off-court leadership, as evidenced by Sexton's positive remarks and the overall success of the minicamp, suggests a deeper commitment to team success. Players like Austin Reaves expressed excitement for the golf portion, further illustrating the relaxed yet bonding atmosphere.

As the Lakers head into training camp, the positive vibes reported by participants, including Bronny James, and the strong endorsement from new players like Sexton, paint an optimistic picture. While analysts predict a potential regression without James, Doncic's early leadership efforts and the successful bonding in Slovenia provide a strong foundation. The upcoming season will be a true test of how this newfound chemistry translates onto the court, but the early signs from Doncic's minicamp are undeniably promising for the new-look Lakers.