The Lakers may have secured Luka Doncic the player, but Luka Doncic the long-term Laker? That part remains a work in progress. According to John Hollinger of The Athletic, while Doncic becomes eligible for a four-year, $223 million extension on August 2, league insiders expect him to take a different route, one that includes securing a shorter deal that positions him for a much larger payday in 2028. When Luka hits 10 years of NBA service, he becomes eligible for a supermax projected north of $400 million… yeah, you heard that right.
The clock is ticking...
On one hand, they will likely get a short-term extension done and keep Luka locked in through at least 2027, which would be an obvious win. But on the other hand, it means the countdown begins immediately. The moment he signs a shorter deal, the Lakers are officially on the clock to prove they are a long-term contender, and more importantly, the place Luka wants to call home for the next decade.
Last season’s shocking blockbuster trade, which sent out Anthony Davis and a couple other assets, signaled the franchise's full commitment to building around Doncic. In limited action, he delivered like a star should. He averaged a whopping 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists across 28 games repping the purple and gold. He definitely looked the part of a franchise player and now, the franchise has its turn to prove it is worthy of him.
More pressure than usual.
With LeBron James sadly nearing the final chapters of his career, whether that be through retirement or one last stop elsewhere, the Lakers are preparing to turn the page. Doncic is supposed to be the next era. But if the front office falters, or if the team fails to stay competitive, Luka could walk away as early as 2026. And this time, there would be no trade needed, because it would be on his terms.
Despite the pressure, there is reason to believe this can work.
Doncic Made it clear in Dallas that he values continuity and relationships. After all, he was absolutely devastated when the Mavericks dealt him away in a trade. That kind of loyalty should not be overlooked. Packing up and starting over again is not something he will most likely be happy doing again. At the end of the day, the Lakers know they need to deliver because guys of his caliber do not just become available often.