Rick Carlisle: 'Don't See Any World' Where LeBron James-Luka Dončić Duo Isn't 'Great'

While there may be some skepticism about Luka Dončić and LeBron James teaming up in Los Angeles, Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle believes the duo is poised for success.

"I don't see any world in which it doesn't work great," Carlisle said, according to team reporter Mike Trudell. "We're talking about two guys who when they came into the world and started playing basketball were expected to have statues built for them. The level of expectation on these two guys is hard to fathom."

Carlisle, who coached the Dallas Mavericks from 2008 to 2021, spent three seasons guiding Dončić and had a front-row seat to his rise, including his Rookie of the Year campaign.

"As I was around Luka more and more, I became more aware of the kind of pressure that must be on him. He has such charisma, ability, skill … he goes into a game and just decides how it's going to be played," Carlisle said, per Trudell. "LeBron does the exact same way."

The 23-year veteran coach has experienced success at the highest level, including an NBA championship in 2011 alongside Dirk Nowitzki.

Just a week ago, Dončić was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in a blockbuster deal that sent Anthony Davis and Max Christie to Dallas. The move stunned the basketball world as the Mavericks parted ways with their franchise cornerstone after seven seasons.

The trade was orchestrated behind the scenes as Dallas general manager Nico Harrison aimed to strengthen the team's defense by acquiring Davis, a three-time All-Defensive First Team selection.

"I believe that defense wins championships," Harrison told ESPN's Tim MacMahon. "I believe that getting an All-Defensive center and an All-NBA player with a defensive mindset gives us a better chance. We're built to win now and in the future."

Dončić has been averaging 28.1 points per game this season in addition to 8.3 rebounds and 7.8 assists while shooting 46.4 percent from the field. James, in his 22nd season, is averaging 24.1 points per game, 7.8 rebounds and 9.0 assists while shooting 51.63 percent from the field.

Dončić has yet to make his debut in purple and gold, as he has been sidelined since Christmas Day after suffering a left calf strain.

He is eyeing a return for the Lakers' home game against the Utah Jazz on Monday after resuming 5-on-5 play during the team's practice last week, according to ESPN's Dave McMenamin.