NBA insider Dave McMenamin recently stated that Luka Doncic is expected to remain with the LA Lakers for several years, with the five-time All-Star eligible for a contract extension this offseason. The anticipation around the Luka Doncic Lakers contract extension highlights the belief that the star guard is committed to the franchise‘s future.
On Wednesday’s NBA Today, McMenamin emphasized that Doncic has embraced a long-term role within the Lakers organization. He pointed out that Doncic’s involvement in recruiting key players Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart indicates the 26-year-old’s dedication to playing in Los Angeles for the foreseeable future.
“I think when we look forward, we look at that August 2nd date when the Lakers can offer an extension to Luka Doncic worth four years, $220 million up to that figure,” McMenamin said. “And I would say if you’re a Laker fan, you shouldn’t have any worry about Luka coming to some sort of an extension agreement with the Lakers.”
—Dave McMenamin, NBA Insider
Starting August 2, the Lakers front office, led by Rob Pelinka, has the option to propose a maximum four-year, $223 million extension to Doncic. Alternatively, they could offer a three-year deal worth $160 million, which might include a player option in the final year.
Currently, Doncic is in the fourth season of his five-year, $215.2 million deal, scheduled to earn $46 million for the 2025-26 season and holding a $49 million player option for 2026-27.
How Luka Doncic Helped Bring Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart to the Lakers
NBA insider Marc Stein described Doncic as the pivotal figure behind recruiting both starting center Deandre Ayton and defensive guard Marcus Smart, who joined the Lakers after their respective contract buyouts. Stein’s report highlights Doncic’s significant influence in securing their commitments during the free agency period.
Stein noted that the front office believes Doncic’s active role in free agency reduces concerns about his commitment to the Lakers long-term.
“External fretting about Dončić committing his long-term future to the Lakers, meanwhile, has dissipated considerably thanks to the contributions made by the 26-year-old throughout free agency in collaboration with vice president of basketball operations Rob Pelinka,” Stein wrote Sunday.
—Marc Stein, NBA Insider
Doncic and Ayton share a connection as members of the same NBA draft class and have the same agent, Bill Duffy. Additionally, Doncic reportedly reached out to Smart directly, expressing his desire to team up with the former NBA Defensive Player of the Year. These alliances underscore Doncic’s influence and leadership role within the Lakers organization.
The Lakers’ Emerging Face for the Future Beyond LeBron James
With these developments, Lakers supporters can find reassurance that the franchise has positioned Luka Doncic as the cornerstone for the post-LeBron James era. His willingness to engage in team-building efforts and the likelihood of a lucrative contract extension suggest a stable and promising future for Los Angeles.
As negotiations continue, the Lakers appear ready to secure their star’s services for years ahead, maintaining their competitiveness in the NBA while integrating new key players like Ayton and Smart into their roster.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Luka Doncic a billionaire?
A. By 2025, Luka Doncic’s wealth is estimated to be around $75 million, based on information from Celebrity Net Worth.
Q. Are Luka Doncic and Bad Bunny friends?
A. DALLAS — For several years, their friendship has grown. This year’s Spotify Artist of the Year has released a new song mentioning Mavericks star Luka Dončić.
Q. Is Luka Doncic big?
A. Although he isn’t the best defender, his size (6-foot-4, 230 pounds) makes it difficult for others to target and overpower him on defense.
Q. What car does Luka Doncic drive?
A. NBA star Luka Doncic loves cars and has an impressive collection. Watching him drive a rare Brabus Rocket 1000 sedan is heartwarming. You can tell he enjoys every moment behind the wheel, as he has been passionate about cars since childhood.