When the Los Angeles Lakers made the blockbuster move to acquire Luka Doncic earlier this year, it sent shockwaves through the NBA. The front office believed they were landing not just an elite talent, but the next face of their storied franchise. Now, with Doncic eligible to sign a contract extension beginning August 2, all eyes are on what could become a long-term partnership between the Slovenian superstar and one of the league’s most iconic teams.
Despite the technicality that Doncic could opt out of his current deal next summer and hit unrestricted free agency, the likelihood of that scenario playing out is considered very slim. According to multiple reports and league insiders, including Dan Woike of The Athletic, the Lakers are “very confident” they’ll lock Doncic into a long-term extension as soon as he becomes eligible.
In a recent appearance on The Herd with Colin Cowherd, Woike emphasized that the Lakers have been proactive in their communication with Doncic since the start of the offseason. “I think they’re really confident, Colin,” Woike said. “They’ve been in contact with him early in the summer about their plans for the organization… They were confident when they made the trade that they could secure him for the long haul.”
There are many factors working in the Lakers’ favor. For one, Doncic thrives under pressure and craves the limelight—a perfect match for the bright lights of Los Angeles and the star-studded environment of Crypto.com Arena. While the city has its drawbacks, such as infamous traffic and relentless media attention, it also offers a level of anonymity for celebrities, something Doncic reportedly appreciates. “You can move pretty anonymously as a famous person in Los Angeles if you choose to,” Woike noted, pointing out that Luka is not the type who chases fame for its own sake.
Another major factor is Doncic’s reported comfort level with the Lakers organization and his seamless fit with the team since arriving. According to sources close to the situation, there have been no signs of discontent, and both sides appear aligned in their goals. Doncic has been fully engaged with the team’s plans and is already putting in serious work during the offseason to prepare for what’s expected to be a defining chapter in his career.
While the question isn’t if Luka will sign, the more intriguing angle is how long his extension will be. He could opt for a four-year deal that guarantees him the most immediate financial gain. However, a three-year extension might be more strategic, positioning him to reach 10 years of NBA service by 2028 and qualify for a lucrative supermax contract under the league’s salary cap rules. Either route provides the Lakers with a clear path forward, and they appear willing to accommodate whichever scenario Doncic prefers.
An added layer of excitement is Doncic’s strong relationship with LeBron James. The two have developed impressive chemistry on the court and mutual respect off it. With LeBron entering his 23rd season and the final year of his current contract, there’s uncertainty about his long-term future. But one thing is clear: Doncic has cherished the opportunity to play alongside one of the greatest to ever do it.
Whether or not LeBron returns after this season, the Lakers believe they’ve found their next cornerstone in Luka Doncic. And come August, it’s expected that belief will be solidified with a signature and a long-term commitment to the purple and gold.