L.A. Lakers' dedication to Luka Doncic stirs speculation regarding LeBron James' position
In a significant shift for the Los Angeles Lakers, superstar Luka Doncic has been signed to a three-year, $165-million contract extension, positioning him as the team's new franchise cornerstone and future face [1][3][4]. This move comes as LeBron James, currently in his 20th season, prepares for his final year with the Lakers, transitioning into a veteran secondary leader [1][2][3].
The extension makes Doncic eligible for a five-year deal worth more than $360 million in 2028 [1]. LeBron James, on the other hand, has exercised his player option for the 2025-26 season, marking a unique situation as it will be the first time in his career he faces a season on an expiring contract without player options [3].
Rob Pelinka, the Lakers' general manager, has praised Doncic's trainer, Anze Macek, and physiotherapist, Javier Barrio, and also commended the work of Doncic's agent, Bill Duffy, and business manager, Lara Beth Seager [1]. During a news conference, Pelinka subtly signalled the Lakers' commitment to Doncic, stating, "We will support you the way Mavericks didn't. This is your team." [1]
The Lakers' decision to invest heavily in Doncic addresses tensions that emerged between his inner circle and the Dallas Mavericks shortly after his trade to the Lakers [2]. Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart have been personally recruited to the Lakers by Doncic [2].
While the Lakers are planning for a future largely without LeBron after next season [1][2][3][4], the 40-year-old James remains motivated to compete for one last championship with the team [3]. His agent has acknowledged the difficult balance between competing now and preparing for the future, emphasising the Lakers' support for James to make the most of his remaining NBA years [3].
The commitment from the Lakers to Doncic raises questions about James' future with the team. James' agent has stated that their camp wants to evaluate what's best for James at this stage in his life and career [2]. Despite this, the dialogue between Pelinka and James' agent, Rich Paul, has been open and constant [2]. It's uncertain whether James will retire as a Laker [2]. He does have a no-trade provision in his contract [2].
In preparation for his extended tenure with the Lakers, Doncic has detailed his weight loss training program, which includes lifting weights and a month without playing basketball [1]. As the Lakers build around their new star, the focus is on closing Doncic's contract, possibly with James accepting a supporting role or leaving the team [1].
[1] - Los Angeles Times [2] - ESPN [3] - Sports Illustrated [4] - CBS Sports
- The Dodgers and Lakers, two renowned sports teams from Los Angeles, California, find themselves in contrasting situations within their respective sports and franchises.
- The Lakers, after securing superstar Luka Doncic with a lucrative contract extension, are planning a future that appears to be largely without LeBron James post-next season.
- In the realm of baseball, the Dodgers represent business success, while the Lakers, currently in basketball's NBA, have placed their business on Doncic's future prowess.
- Despite the Dodgers being dominant in their sport, the Lakers' decision to invest heavily in Doncic could potentially reshape the team's identity and its standing in the competitive sports world, much like LeBron did during his time.
