Vlade Divac
Lakers’ Early Exit ‘Not Good’ …
But I’m Still Optimistic!!!
Published May 11, 2025 12:05 AM PDT
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TMZSports.com
The sky is falling in L.A. following the Lakers’ disappointing playoff run … but Vlade Divac ain’t exactly reaching for his umbrella just yet — as he expressed optimism about his former team to TMZ Sports this week.
The ex-Lakers big man chopped it up with us following a dinner at Craig’s — and while he described Los Angeles’ opening-round loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves as “not good,” he’s still excited for the future.
He told us he “definitely” sees Lebron James returning for 2025-26 … and added he saw no drop-off in the 40-year-old’s game this year.
Of course, there are many in the City of Angels who are feeling a bit differently … as the Lakers were a big favorite in the series with the Wolves — but they only won one game.
To make matters worse, JJ Redick was criticized heavily for his lineups.
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Mind the Game with LeBron James and Steve Nash
Nonetheless, Vlade appears confident — as does LeBron, who said himself this week he wasn’t sweating the playoff L too much.
James, though, wouldn’t confirm whether or not he’d back next season — but who we kiddin’, he’s playing too well to hang ’em up … and it’s clear Vlade and the rest of Los Angeles will be watching his every dribble when he comes back.