Kendrick Perkins goes off on Lakers over Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves

ESPN analyst and former NBA center Kendrick Perkins delivered a sharp critique of the Los Angeles Lakers’ current construction, framing Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves as franchise cornerstones who create a structural problem the team has not yet addressed on a recent episode of his podcast, Perk Unplugged.

No player, no team is afraid of this Lakers team

“Luka, and Austin Reaves are your franchise players,” Perkins said. “We’re talking about an historic franchise where it’s no in between with their fan base. It’s either championships, or bust… Two guys who are both defensive liabilities. It ain’t a team in the world, it ain’t a player in the world that’s afraid of Luka and Austin Reaves. Matter of fact, when the playoffs come around, they gonna be looking to get to the seeding where they can actually look at them.”

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Doncic, a regular MVP contender who was traded to Los Angeles last season, is known for his impressive offensive skills. However, people often criticize his effort and positioning on defense throughout his career.

Reaves signed a four-year, $185 million extension to stay in Los Angeles this offseason, is a reliable offensive contributor but similarly does not project as a defensive difference-maker at the star level.

Kendrick Perkins GOES IN on the Lakers for having Luka and Austin Reaves as their franchise players 👀

“Luka, and Austin Reaves are your franchise players. We’re talking about an historic franchise where it’s no in between with their fan base. It’s either championships, or… https://t.co/M8vzhxalDY pic.twitter.com/augh7bChhF

— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) June 28, 2026