Lakers’ Luka Doncic Slammed by NBA Icons Gary Payton, Robert Horry for Lacking Key Basketball Skill

Luka Doncic has rapidly risen to NBA stardom, known for his elite scoring, creative playmaking, and clutch performances. Yet despite his offensive brilliance, some of basketball’s most respected voices are calling attention to a part of his game that continues to raise concern—his defense. NBA legends Gary Payton and Robert Horry recently weighed in with strong opinions, highlighting a critical flaw they believe is holding Doncic back.

Gary Payton, famously known as “The Glove” for his lockdown defense during his playing days, didn’t mince words when assessing Doncic’s effort on the defensive end. He argued that no matter how gifted a player may be on offense, a lack of defensive tenacity can undermine a team’s success. Payton stressed that elite-level basketball demands two-way excellence, especially for players expected to lead their teams deep into the postseason.

Robert Horry, a seven-time NBA champion with a reputation for winning basketball, echoed similar thoughts. He pointed out that while Doncic is a dominant offensive force, his defensive shortcomings are too glaring to ignore. Horry emphasized that championship teams rely on players who contribute consistently on both sides of the court—something he believes Doncic hasn’t fully embraced yet.

The criticism doesn’t stem from doubt in Doncic’s talent but rather from high expectations. With his name often mentioned among the league’s elite, it’s natural that former greats would expect more than just highlight plays and scoring bursts. Their remarks serve as a challenge for Doncic to take the next step in his development and become the kind of player who can impact every possession, not just the ones that end in points.

As Doncic matures and continues to evolve in the NBA, the feedback from Payton and Horry could serve as a pivotal wake-up call. If he can channel the same energy into defense that he shows on offense, there’s no telling how far he can go. The potential is undeniable—the question now is whether Doncic is ready to answer the call and round out his game where it matters most.