Luka Doncic is entering the new NBA season with a dramatically transformed physique, having shed 31 pounds through rigorous two-a-day training sessions and a regimented gluten-free, high-protein diet. This physical overhaul has sharpened his performance and appearance, coinciding with the recent announcement of a major contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers. This three-year, $165 million deal, secured in August 2025, solidifies Doncic’s role as a cornerstone for the Lakers well beyond next season and eliminates his eligibility for free agency in 2026.
Despite the challenges and emotional toll following his trade away from the Dallas Mavericks, Luka’s resolve and skill remain undiminished, making this contract extension a sign of both confidence from the Lakers and a fresh start for him personally. As he prepares for the upcoming seasons, the commitment reflects Luka’s growing stature in Los Angeles basketball and sets the stage for a potential lucrative contract in 2028, where he could ink a deal worth approximately $417 million.
Dirk Nowitzki Reflects on Luka’s Transition and Continued Growth
Dirk Nowitzki recently shared candid thoughts on Luka Doncic’s evolution since the trade from Dallas during a conversation on the 41Campus podcast. Nowitzki acknowledged a difficult adjustment period, stating,
I think Luka got off to a good start. I think it was a bit harder to get started. And it was actually well reported that he was a bit disappointed with the whole situation and how it went. But I think after a while he settled in well, played well, and were even in the playoffs, the Lakers.
He also provided insight into Luka’s current status and upcoming commitments, adding,
He has just been extended. Was just in L.A. this weekend and has now extended three years in Los Angeles. Looks good, is fit. I think he’s fit for the European Championship. Plays European Championship for Slovenia.
Despite trading away some consistency early on, Luka’s resilience has been evident in his contributions to the Lakers. During his partial first season with Los Angeles, he led the team across multiple statistical categories, including points, rebounds, assists, steals, and three-pointers made. He became only the fifth Lakers player to average at least 30 points, five rebounds, and five assists during a single playoff series, underlining his integral role even amid adversity.
On-Court Performance Validates Lakers’ Long-Term Investment
After joining the Lakers midseason and playing a career-low 50 games, Luka’s ability to lead and inspire on the court impressed teammates, coaches, and fans alike. His all-around performance left no doubt about why the Lakers were ready to commit to him for the foreseeable future. Lakers management’s decision to offer such a significant extension indicates their belief that Luka forms the backbone of the franchise’s ambitions going forward, especially alongside veteran LeBron James, whose status remains closely watched.
Adding to the future outlook, Luka is actively competing internationally, representing Slovenia in EuroBasket 2025. His recent game against Germany saw him score 19 points, along with 3 rebounds and 5 assists in 24 minutes, despite Slovenia’s 103-89 loss. With several challenging games still ahead against top European teams including Lithuania and Serbia, Luka’s international play is both a demonstration of his commitment and a preparation ground for his continued excellence in the NBA.
Dirk Nowitzki and Mark Cuban’s Discontent with Mavericks’ Handling of Luka Trade
The Luka Doncic trade left a profound mark not only on the Mavericks as an organization but also on its long-standing icons. Dirk Nowitzki, the franchise’s greatest player and its 2011 NBA Championship leader, alongside owner Mark Cuban, have both distanced themselves following the deal. As reported by ESPN’s Tim MacMahon,
Dirk is completely turned off by this franchise,
highlighting the deep rift created by management’s decision.
Neither Dirk nor Cuban were consulted before the trade was finalized, adding to feelings of betrayal. Nowitzki expressed his disappointment and sadness over the situation but nevertheless traveled to Los Angeles to support Luka during his Lakers debut, maintaining personal loyalty despite the fractured relationship with Dallas management. Fans familiar with the Mavericks’ rich history of player loyalty and community felt stunned by the sudden upheaval, especially as the trade was announced under cover of night with little transparency.
Long-time fan Mitch Jones encapsulated the sentiment among supporters by saying,
We’re robbed of being a part of that story and being a part of that journey.
The unrest deepened after general manager Nico Harrison’s contentious comments dismissing the perspectives of Dirk and Cuban, with Harrison stating,
If they’re not in the building, they don’t know what’s going on.
Subsequently, both Nowitzki and Cuban were effectively excluded from Maverick basketball operations, further alienating them and the fanbase alike.
Impact of the Trade Fallout on Mavericks’ Culture and Fan Trust
The Mavericks have long been praised for their player-focused culture and strong connections to fans, but the handling of Luka’s departure damaged that reputation significantly. Public relations expert Stephen Reiff criticized the franchise’s communication approach, stating,
People want to know why. They want to trust you. They want to believe in your vision, versus vague comments about defense and culture.
Fans encountered silence and confusing messages, which compounded frustration and made the trade’s fallout feel even more painful.
Reiff’s blunt assessment of the situation was: Atrociously. For Dirk Nowitzki, the move was more than a mere roster shakeup—it was a personal blow that symbolized the end of a meaningful era for Dallas basketball. The combined disappointment of legend and supporter manifests in a pervasive sense of loss and mistrust that the Mavericks organization will need to address carefully if it hopes to reconnect authentically with its community.
Looking Ahead: Luka’s Role in Lakers’ Future and NBA Landscape
Luka Doncic’s commitment to the Lakers, underscored by his recent contract extension, positions him as a franchise centerpiece as the NBA progresses toward its next competitive cycles. His physical transformation and continuing development bolster expectations that he will not only maintain but elevate his all-star level play. While veteran LeBron James remains a pivotal figure for the Lakers, Luka’s emergence ensures the team’s future strategy centers around his talents and leadership.
Meanwhile, the Mavericks face ongoing scrutiny as they rebuild trust with fans and legends alike in the wake of the controversial trade. Dallas must reconcile the loss of Luka’s star power and the alienation of key figures like Nowitzki and Cuban, setting new directions both on and off the court.
For Luka, representing Slovenia internationally remains a point of pride and preparation, highlighting his dual commitment to global competition and NBA excellence. As his Lakers contract runs through 2028 with a player option for the following season, both the franchise and fans will be watching closely to see how this next chapter unfolds on the hardwood.