Los Angeles Lakers legend Robert Horry has explained why he does not want Luka Doncic smiling during games, calling for a more businesslike approach on the court.
Doncic, now starring for the Lakers, has often played with visible emotion and interaction with fans, something Horry believes should be toned down in high-stakes moments.
The seven-time NBA champion made his stance clear.
Robert Horry says Luka Doncic should cut out smiling and antics
Speaking in comments shared via Slothanova, Horry said: “For me, when I watch teams, I like teams that are locked in. I don’t want no antics.
“I just want you to play. I don’t want no smiling… All of these antics and talking to the crowd, I don’t want none of that.”
Horry’s comments reflect a championship-era mindset shaped by deep playoff runs and title expectations. For him, visible celebration or engagement with the crowd can signal distraction rather than focus.
Doncic has built his reputation on flair, creativity, and emotional expression, traits that energise both teammates and fans.
However, Horry appears to believe that when pursuing championships, the message should be seriousness and control.
Robert Horry urges Luka Doncic to show business mentality
Horry added: “ I want you to be locked in, go out and get a win, let everybody know you mean business, and there’s no playing around.”
The Lakers remain firmly in the playoff hunt, and expectations rise whenever the franchise is positioned to contend. Horry’s view suggests that body language and tone matter as much as box score production.
While Doncic’s personality has never been in question, the debate centres on optics during critical stretches. For some veterans, intensity and restraint project dominance.
Whether Doncic adjusts his on-court demeanour remains to be seen, but Horry’s comments underline the standard expected when wearing a Lakers jersey.
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