The San Antonio Spurs’ hope of joining Luka Doncic with Victor Wembanyama in 2026 has been significantly impacted by the recent LeBron James Lakers contract extension. As the offseason unfolds, this development plays a crucial role in the future trajectory of the Los Angeles Lakers and the Spurs, especially with potential contract extensions looming in August.
While free agency this summer featured only a few notable moves such as the Spurs signing center Luke Kornet, much of the attention is turning toward 2026’s promising class. That group could include stars like De’Aaron Fox, Trae Young, and Luka Doncic, all eligible for contract extensions starting August 2. Fox is expected to solidify his place in San Antonio long-term, while Doncic appears poised to commit to the Lakers despite some uncertainty surrounding his fit with the team.
Contract Extension Dynamics Between Doncic and the Lakers
Recent reports emphasize that the Lakers have the ability to offer Doncic a lucrative contract extension. ESPN’s Dave McMenamin outlined that Los Angeles can present a four-year, $229 million extension or a three-year, $165 million deal with a player option in 2028. The latter would enable Doncic to sign a maximum contract afterward, granting him a salary share of 35% of the cap for five seasons.
This information came just ahead of LeBron James signing his own extension for the next season. While this move might have implications for the Lakers’ salary flexibility, Doncic is still expected to become the franchise’s centerpiece. McMenamin noted,
“While the exact salary scenario Doncic and the Lakers land on remains to be seen, there’s no signs of a split anytime soon,”
adding that
“A source close to Doncic told ESPN that Walter’s purchase was a positive development.”
Spurs’ Challenges in Pursuing Luka Doncic Alongside Wembanyama
Despite Spurs fans dreaming of a scenario where Luka Doncic could reunite with Texas and partner with Victor Wembanyama in San Antonio, this possibility appears increasingly unlikely. For the Spurs to pursue Doncic, they would need to forego extending De’Aaron Fox, who they traded for in February and who is eager to sign a long-term deal.
Financially, although the Spurs might save enough cap space to offer Doncic a contract, the likelihood of him agreeing to join a third team is slim. All indications suggest Doncic will remain an adversary to Wembanyama and the Spurs rather than a new teammate, aligning with expectations from the start.
The dynamics unfolding with LeBron James’ decision to extend his contract highlight the Lakers’ commitment to building around their core, which now officially includes Doncic as the future leader. Meanwhile, the Spurs will continue looking forward to developing their young talent and maintaining a competitive roster.