Luka Doncic is set to become the highest-paid player in NBA history, with the Los Angeles Lakers planning to offer him a groundbreaking five-year contract exceeding $400 million in 2028. Expected to decline his player option and enter free agency that summer, Doncic’s new deal would likely make him the first NBA player to earn more than $80 million annually, highlighting his unprecedented value.
Recent Contract Choice Reflects Strategy for Larger Future Earnings
At 26 years old, Doncic recently signed a three-year, $165 million extension with the Lakers on August 2. He passed on a longer four-year contract worth $229 million to maintain contract flexibility, positioning himself to benefit from projected increases in the league’s salary cap. This approach suggests an eye toward securing an even more lucrative deal in coming years.
Transformative Trade and On-Court Impact with the Lakers
Doncic was acquired from the Dallas Mavericks at the 2025 trade deadline in a move that reshaped the Lakers franchise. Quickly establishing himself as the team’s cornerstone, he averaged 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists by the end of that regular season, increasing his playoff scoring average to 30.2 points per game. His career averages—28.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 8.2 assists—rank him third all-time in points per game behind only Michael Jordan and Wilt Chamberlain.
Contract Features and Influences on Team Building
The forthcoming contract is reported to include a rare no-trade clause, underscoring Doncic’s growing power and influence within the franchise. Moreover, he has taken an active role in shaping the Lakers’ roster during the offseason, notably recruiting veterans such as Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart. League insiders also note that Doncic has slimmed down considerably, which could help prolong his peak performance years.
Background on Dallas Mavericks and Next Steps for the Lakers
Despite leading the Mavericks to the NBA Finals in 2024, Dallas declined to offer a lucrative five-year supermax contract, paving the way for Doncic’s transition to Los Angeles. Now firmly entrenched as the Lakers’ franchise player, he is positioned to sign what will be one of the most significant contracts in NBA history, setting new financial benchmarks for the sport.