Dallas Mavericks star Luka Doncic signs a hefty $165 million contract to remain with the Los Angeles Lakers.
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NBA, Luka Doncic has agreed to a three-year, $165 million maximum contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers. This deal, which includes a player option for the 2028-29 season, secures Doncic's future with the team at least through the 2027-28 season.
The contract's salary breakdown significantly impacts the Lakers' salary cap. In the 2025-26 season, Doncic's salary will be $194.8 million. This will decrease to $104.4 million in the 2026-27 season and further to $75.8 million in the 2027-28 season. The player option year in 2028-29 carries a salary of $55.1 million.
If Doncic declines the player option in 2028, he would be eligible for a supermax contract worth up to five years and approximately $417 million, based on 35% of the salary cap at that time. This potential deal could see Doncic secure a long-term contract surpassing $400 million, reflecting his value and elite status in the NBA.
Doncic, who joined the Lakers in February 2023, has made an immediate impact. In his first 28 games with the team, he averaged an impressive 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per game. His consistent performance and leadership have raised expectations for the Lakers, with many predicting that Doncic will lead the team to its first championship since 2020.
The Slovenian superstar has also expressed his commitment to bringing another championship to Los Angeles and making the Lakers Nation proud. However, the career of the 40-year-old US superstar LeBron James appears to be winding down, which could pave the way for Doncic to take the reins and lead the Lakers to future success.
It's worth noting that Doncic started every game in his first 28 games with the Lakers. He was, however, eliminated in the first round of the NBA playoffs last season with the 17-time champions. Maxi Kleber, a German national player, also played for the team Doncic was eliminated with in the last season's playoffs.
Doncic's extension with the Lakers marks a significant moment in his career and the future of the team. As he settles into his new role, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how he will lead the Lakers towards championship glory.
The Lakers' salary cap is heavily influenced by Doncic's contract, as his salary will reach $194.8 million in the 2025-26 season. Additionally, Doncic's elite performance in basketball, particularly in the NBA, has prompted speculation about him securing a long-term supermax contract worth over $400 million if he declines the player option in 2028.
