Luka Doncic has officially embarked on a new chapter in his NBA career, leaving behind the Dallas Mavericks to join the Los Angeles Lakers. Following this surprising trade at the start of the 2025 season, Doncic has quickly found his footing in LA, securing a lucrative three-year, $165 million contract extension that signals his commitment to the franchise.
The Slovenian superstar, who spent the first six seasons of his career as the face of the Mavericks, has made headlines with his transition. Doncic’s manager, Lara Beth Seager, emphasized that there’s no looking back. In a succinct statement, she conveyed Doncic’s mindset: “He’s moved on.” She elaborated, stating, “I think it was always known that, when Luka was traded here, it’s, ‘He’s here now.’ He wants to win where he is, and it’s important that he wins and that we’re working together with the team.”
Doncic wasted no time acclimating to the Lakers’ system, showcasing his skills alongside NBA legend LeBron James. During the regular season, he averaged an impressive 28 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per game, helping lead the Lakers to a third-place finish in the Western Conference. However, their playoff run was cut short in the first round by the Minnesota Timberwolves.
As the Lakers gear up for the upcoming season, Doncic is poised to play a pivotal role in their strategy. With LeBron James in the twilight of his career, Doncic is seen as the future cornerstone of the franchise. His ability to impress both on and off the court has already garnered the respect and support of the Lakers’ veteran star. Following the announcement of Doncic’s contract extension, James personally congratulated him via video call, solidifying their budding partnership.
Beyond his contributions on the hardwood, Doncic is also making waves off the court. He recently joined forces with ESPN as a Take Back Sports Ambassador, a national initiative aimed at making youth sports more accessible and enjoyable. “The Luka Doncic Foundation and ESPN’s Take Back Sports initiative are focused on making youth sports more accessible and less stressful for everyone,” Doncic stated. His generosity is evident as he has pledged $5 million to support 77 young athletes, demonstrating his commitment to fostering the next generation of sports talent.
As the Lakers continue to build their roster and prepare for the season, Doncic’s leadership and influence are already evident. His ability to adapt and thrive in a new environment, combined with his philanthropic efforts, positions him as a rising star in the NBA. Fans can expect to see a new and exciting chapter unfold as Doncic embraces his role in Los Angeles.