Following LeBron James‘ decision to activate his $52.6 million player option this summer, the Los Angeles Lakers now face a more pressing challenge: finalizing the Luka Doncic Lakers contract. The situation has become a source of significant anxiety as the team approaches a critical deadline for extending the star guard’s deal. The stakes are high, as Doncic’s contract will heavily influence the Lakers’ roster decisions in the coming years.
Originally eligible for a massive $345.3 million contract extension with the Dallas Mavericks, Luka Doncic accepted a trade to the Lakers, which reduced his maximum extension value to four years at $229 million—a steep drop of more than $100 million. While some reports suggest Doncic might consider a pay cut to grant the Lakers more financial flexibility, insiders reveal that the Lakers’ front office is increasingly uneasy about the situation.
NBA Insider Breaks Down the Complexities of Doncic’s Max Contract
Brian Windhorst, appearing on ESPN’s NBA Today, provided insight into the types of maximum contracts available to NBA superstars, placing Doncic’s current offer into the “stress max” category. The three types vary based on experience and cap percentage, with the “fun max” for first-time max players, the “stress max” for a player’s second max contract, and the “legacy max” reserved for established veterans at 35% of the salary cap.
Well, there are three max contracts that NBA players, superstars, can sign. One that’s worth 25% of the cap, 30% and 35%, depending on years of service. The first one I like to call the ‘fun max’, everyone who’s offered it, signs it—like McMahon discussed a minute ago.
—Brian Windhorst, NBA Insider
Then there’s the stress max, this happens when it’s a player’s second max contract. This is when players sometimes leave, or are not really worth it. This is a stress max right now for Luka. The Lakers are a little bit stressed out about it. Then there’s a legacy max, when you get the 35%, you’re home free, everything is going to be great.
—Brian Windhorst, NBA Insider
Windhorst elaborated on how signing the stress max contract could bring the Lakers a period of relief, allowing them to plan several seasons ahead rather than focus solely on short-term needs.
This is a stress max situation, so if he signs it, relief for the Lakers, they can spend a little time looking at their roster over the next two or three years. Making decisions that are not going to be based upon what’s best for us tomorrow, what are we going to present to Luka in 2026, we can think about what the team looks like in 27-28, etc.
—Brian Windhorst, NBA Insider
Potential Outcomes if Doncic Declines the Extension
If Luka Doncic chooses not to sign the contract extension, the scenario shifts dramatically. He would become a free agent in the summer of 2026, entering a competitive market with over ten teams likely possessing ample salary cap space to pursue his talents aggressively. This uncertainty is adding pressure on the Lakers as each passing day fuels speculation and unease about the team‘s future composition and championship hopes.
If he doesn’t sign it, he can be a free agent next summer when there’s going to be 10+ teams with cap space. If he does not sign it, we will see teams begin to open up maneuvers to try to chase Luka.
—Brian Windhorst, NBA Insider
The Lakers are aware that the ongoing contract situation coincides closely with LeBron James entering the final year of his deal. The franchise seeks to avoid prolonged distractions revolving around contract negotiations, aiming instead for a stable environment conducive to building a competitive roster.
And every day will go by where every sort of wobble with the Lakers— everything will be tied to the Luka contract. Especially with LeBron in the last year of his contract as well. So the Lakers don’t want that in their lives, they want the no-stress max.
—Brian Windhorst, NBA Insider
Contract Timing and Doncic’s Focus This Summer
Luka Doncic will become officially eligible to sign his extension starting August 2, but fans and analysts are advised not to expect immediate news. With Doncic committed to playing for the Slovenian National Team in the 2025 EuroBasket competition, contract talks may take a back seat during this period.
I would not expect it to happen that early. He’s playing for the Slovenian national team. Do not freak out if you do not hear from Luka contractually until September.
—Brian Windhorst, NBA Insider
So far in the ongoing NBA season, Doncic has demonstrated his elite capabilities, averaging 28.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 7.3 assists over 33 games for the Lakers. His on-court performance affirms his role as the franchise cornerstone, underscoring the importance of resolving his contract to chart the team‘s path forward.
Implications of Luka Doncic’s Contract Decision on Lakers’ Future
Much hinges on whether Luka Doncic accepts the Lakers’ four-year, $229 million extension, as it will shape the organization’s strategy for the near future and beyond. If negotiations succeed, the Lakers can build around Doncic with clarity and financial planning. Conversely, rejecting this offer could lead to a free agency battle, potentially fracturing the team‘s core.
Moreover, if Doncic plays his cards right, he may secure an even larger contract in 2026, reportedly worth up to $406 million. This potential windfall reflects his status as one of the league’s brightest young stars and the central figure for the Lakers’ upcoming era.
As the deadline approaches, there is intense speculation about Doncic’s commitment to Los Angeles. Lakers fans, analysts, and the broader NBA community remain anxious to see if he will embrace his future with the Lakers or explore opportunities elsewhere when free agency arrives in 2026.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Luka Doncic a billionaire?
A. As of 2025, Luka Doncic is believed to have a net worth of around $75 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
Q. Are Luka Doncic and Bad Bunny friends?
A. For many years, there has been a strong friendship. This year, Spotify’s Artist of the Year released a new song mentioning Mavs star Luka Dončić.