The Los Angeles Lakers are feeling the heat as the deadline for Luka Doncic’s contract extension looms closer. Since joining the team in a high-profile trade with the Dallas Mavericks, Doncic has emerged as a cornerstone for the Lakers’ future. With the extension deadline set for August 2, 2025, the urgency to secure his long-term commitment is palpable.
Doncic, a two-time All-NBA First Team player, has quickly established himself as one of the brightest young talents in the league. In the 2024-2025 season, he averaged an impressive 28.2 points, 7.7 assists, and 8.2 rebounds per game, helping elevate the Lakers to the third seed in the competitive Western Conference. Despite a disappointing first-round playoff exit, Doncic’s potential to lead the Lakers back to championship contention is undeniable. This makes the upcoming contract extension all the more critical for the franchise, which hopes to build around him for years to come.
However, the situation is complicated. Due to the trade from the Mavericks, Doncic is no longer eligible for a supermax contract, which would have guaranteed him a significant salary increase. Instead, he is in line to negotiate a substantial extension. According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, Doncic could sign a three-year deal worth approximately $165 million, with a player option for the 2028-2029 season. This contract would keep him with the Lakers through his 10th NBA season and would make him supermax-eligible afterward, allowing him to secure a more lucrative deal in the future.
Adding to the complexity is Doncic’s participation in the EuroBasket tournament. His commitment to the Slovenian national team could extend into late September, depending on how far they advance. Historically, Doncic has refrained from engaging in NBA contract negotiations while competing internationally, meaning the Lakers may have to wait until EuroBasket concludes to begin serious discussions. This delay could create a sense of urgency as the extension deadline approaches.
Internal dynamics within the Lakers also contribute to the pressure. LeBron James’ future with the team remains uncertain, as he exercised a $52.6 million player option for the 2025-2026 season but has expressed frustration over his diminishing role in the team’s long-term plans. Reports indicate that James was not consulted on key decisions, including the acquisition of Doncic and the potential sale of the franchise. This has fueled speculation that the upcoming season might be James’ last in Los Angeles, adding another layer of uncertainty for the Lakers.
As the August 2 deadline draws nearer, the Lakers find themselves at a pivotal moment in their franchise’s history. Securing Doncic’s commitment is essential if the team hopes to return to championship contention. However, with international commitments and internal team issues complicating matters, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining not only Doncic’s future but also the trajectory of the Los Angeles Lakers.
In summary, the Lakers are under significant pressure to finalize Luka Doncic’s contract extension while navigating the complexities of international play and internal team dynamics. As fans eagerly await developments, the franchise stands at a crossroads that could shape its future for years to come.