Collin Sexton didn’t choose the Lakers for comfort or a fresh start. He chose them for the pressure, the spotlight, and the chance to win.
“I wanted an opportunity to win, be on a big stage and try to impact winning,” Sexton told ESPN LA. No hedging, no talk of personal stats or a change of scenery. Sexton made it clear: he’s in Los Angeles to chase something bigger than himself.
That clarity sets the tone for the Lakers’ offseason. Sexton isn’t interested in a narrow role or incremental progress. He’s focused on winning, the responsibility that comes with it, and the chance to make a difference when it matters most. The Lakers have added a guard who openly ties his decision to the team’s ability to compete at the highest level.
Preparation for that challenge started early. Luka Doncic organized a minicamp in Slovenia, inviting the new-look roster for a preseason gathering that doubled as a statement of intent. Sexton saw more than just workouts, he saw leadership and a chance for the team to build chemistry before the season tips off.
“For Luka to do that shows he’s a true leader and wants to be the one to lead us this season,” Sexton said.
Doncic’s Slovenia camp gave a new roster its first test
The Slovenia trip wasn’t about sightseeing. It was about building trust and breaking down the awkwardness that comes with a roster overhaul. Sandro Mamukelashvili, another Lakers newcomer, said the experience quickly made the group feel less like strangers and more like teammates.
“First of all, shoutout to Luka. I think the organization was amazing, the way they planned everything,” Mamukelashvili said. He praised Ljubljana and the logistics, but his main takeaway was the time spent together. “It was great for the new team. It was a bunch of new guys on the team, and you know, all of us being together, it didn’t even feel like it was a lot of new guys.”
Before the Lakers can chase the drama and stakes Sexton craves, they have to become a team. Doncic’s minicamp gave them a head start, and established who will set the tone.
Sexton already sees how he fits. He singled out former Utah teammate Walker Kessler, praising his rim protection and offensive growth. Sexton isn’t just thinking about his own role; he’s looking at how the Lakers’ pieces can work together.
Off the court, questions linger. Jeanie Buss is fighting to prevent her five siblings from selling the 17.8% stake still held by the family trust, according to her court petition. NBA rules require a governor to own at least 15% of a franchise, so a sale of those shares could impact Buss’ position. Joshua Kushner is reportedly expected to become governor once a proposed acquisition is completed.
On the floor, Sexton’s purpose is clear. He came to Los Angeles for a shot at winning. The first days in Slovenia have already convinced the new group that unfamiliarity doesn’t have to be a weakness.
