The Los Angeles Lakers will sign Luka Doncic to a three-year max extension after he becomes eligible in August, despite the rumors of stress going around. He is eligible for a four-year deal, but only taking three seasons allows Doncic to have ten years of service in the NBA before his next contract. Reaching that mark gets him significantly more money in his next contract. The shocking blockbuster trade in February left Luka reeling, but it is important to consider all the variables in this case.
Doncic is a loyal guy. He wanted to spend his entire career in Dallas before Nico Harrison stunningly traded him behind his back. Ever since arriving in LA, the two sides have fully bought into each other. This is Luka’s team now, and Doncic made it clear that he wants to win championships with the Lakers. The bond is built, and fans know there is no better place for a superstar than being in purple and gold.
There should be zero stress for fans. Doncic isn’t eligible to sign the extension until Aug. 2, but they shouldn’t worry if the deal isn’t immediately announced. Luka is playing for the Slovenian National Team at EuroBasket, so he may postpone the extension until after their run.
Luka Doncic’s extension decision is headed toward an obvious conclusion
For the Lakers' part, there should not be stress about the money. Luka had a run of five straight first-team All-NBA honors snapped in 2025, but only because he didn’t reach the 65-game qualifier. He is one of the three best players in the world. Doncic led the Mavericks to the NBA Finals in 2024. The 26-year-old makes his team better and deserves every penny of the max.
The franchise is doing its part to keep him happy. They signed Deandre Ayton to give him a rim-rolling five after the failed Mark Williams trade. Ayton and Luka are both represented by Billy Duffy. Fans can bet that it is no coincidence.
The Lakers did let Luka’s closest teammate walk in free agency, but LA likely doesn’t get Ayton without making that move. They gave Doncic a heads-up on the sale and included him in their offseason plans. The Lakers are clearly building around Luka and are eager to make this a long-term partnership.
Doncic knows he plays for the NBA’s most popular franchise and can become a legend in Los Angeles. The Lakers are known for winning championships and taking care of their stars. Luka is their alpha now and has no plans of relinquishing that title.
The rumors may buzz multiple times in the weeks ahead, but Luka Doncic will ultimately sign a three-year max contract to stay with the Los Angeles Lakers. It is the deal that makes the most sense for everyone involved. Doncic gives his new franchise a commitment and gets to recoup some of the money he lost in the trade. It is a win-win.
If it doesn’t happen on Aug. 2, don’t panic. There is nothing to worry about here. Luka is locked in as the Lakers’ star.