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Dirk Nowitzki Warns NBA About Lakers' Threat

2026-06-23 · Dirk Nowitzki · Opinion

Dirk Nowitzki warns the NBA about the Los Angeles Lakers, viewing them as a legitimate threat to unseat the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Lakers have won 14 of their last 16 games, with a strong Big 3 of Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves.

What makes the Lakers a threat?

The Lakers' Big 3 is healthy for the first time, with LeBron James stepping back to let the younger players carry the offense. Dirk Nowitzki praised the Lakers' head coach JJ Redick's ability to turn "subpar defenders" into a decent defensive unit. The Lakers rank ninth in defensive rating since the start of March, with a rating of 112.1.

Luka Doncic's incredible form

Luka Doncic has been playing incredible basketball, averaging almost 40 points per night and shooting 39% from three over his last 15 games. Dirk Nowitzki called Doncic "unguardable" when his stepback shot is working. Doncic will sit out Monday's game against the Washington Wizards with a suspension, but is expected to return for Tuesday's game against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The Lakers' chances

The Lakers have the eighth-shortest odds to win the NBA championship, but Dirk Nowitzki believes they can go further. The Lakers will face the reigning NBA champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, after their game against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Dirk Nowitzki warned the NBA to "watch out" for the Lakers, with their strong Big 3 and decent defense. The Lakers' winning streak is a testament to their strength and depth, with LeBron James and Luka Doncic leading the charge.

What's next for the Lakers?

The Lakers will look to maintain their winning ways against the lottery-bound Washington Wizards, before facing tougher opponents in the playoffs. Dirk Nowitzki's warning to the NBA is a clear indication that the Lakers are a team to be reckoned with, and their chances of winning the championship should not be underestimated. The Lakers' strong defense and incredible offense make them a formidable opponent, and Dirk Nowitzki believes they can go all the way.

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