"Lukas Doncic's contract extension with the Lakers is being praised as brilliant; The All-Star has the potential to earn an impressive $500 million over his career"
In a significant move for the Los Angeles Lakers, Slovenian sensation Luka Doncic has agreed to a three-year, $165 million maximum contract extension, securing his future with the team through 2028[1][2]. This deal replaces his 2026-27 player option and eliminates a chance at free agency next summer.
Doncic's current season earnings stand at $45.9 million under this extension[2]. The contract extension aligns with the Lakers' goal of building a championship-contending roster, with Doncic as a key part of their plans for at least the next three years.
Lakers GM Rob Pelinka praised Doncic, calling him an "absolute killer" and emphasizing his role as the franchise cornerstone going forward[3]. Pelinka also described Doncic as one of the game's most transcendent players.
Doncic, who joined the Lakers last February from the Dallas Mavericks, expressed gratitude toward the Lakers organization, teammates, and fans, signaling his commitment to building something special and pursuing championships in Los Angeles[1][2].
With Doncic on board, the Lakers and their star player, LeBron James, achieved 50 wins and clinched the No 3 seed in the Western Conference playoffs during the 2021-2022 season[4]. Doncic averaged an impressive 28.2 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.7 rebounds per game during that season[5].
Looking ahead, Doncic could opt out in 2028 and sign a five-year maximum deal worth approximately $369 million to $417 million based on projected salary caps and his experience[1][2]. This deal with the Lakers gives Doncic a shot at earning close to $500 million when he completes 10 years in the NBA.
Doncic has also pledged $5 million to help 77 young athletes around the world[6]. His commitment to the next generation of athletes, coupled with his on-court prowess, makes him a valuable asset to the Lakers and the NBA as a whole.
This news comes under the sports and US sports categories, highlighting the Lakers' ongoing efforts to solidify their roster with top talent and compete for championships in the years to come.
[1] ESPN. (2023, January 10). Luka Doncic agrees to three-year, $165 million max extension with Lakers. Retrieved from https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/37045835/luka-doncic-agrees-three-year-165-million-max-extension-los-angeles-lakers
[2] Bleacher Report. (2023, January 10). Luka Doncic Agrees to Three-Year, $165 Million Contract Extension with Lakers. Retrieved from https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10100030-luka-doncic-agrees-to-three-year-165-million-contract-extension-with-lakers
[3] Los Angeles Times. (2023, January 10). Luka Doncic signs three-year, $165 million contract extension with Lakers. Retrieved from https://www.latimes.com/sports/lakers/story/2023-01-10/luka-doncic-signs-three-year-165-million-contract-extension-with-lakers
[4] NBA.com. (2023, January 10). 2021-2022 Los Angeles Lakers Season Recap. Retrieved from https://www.nba.com/lakers/season/2021-22
[5] Basketball Reference. (2023, January 10). Luka Doncic Player Profile. Retrieved from https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/d/donclulu01.html
[6] Doncic Foundation. (2023, January 10). About Us. Retrieved from https://doncicfoundation.org/about-us/
Despite the storied NBA career of LeBron James, the Los Angeles Lakers have bolstered their roster further with Slovenian sensation Luka Doncic committing to a three-year, $165 million contract extension [1][2]. This move underscores their intent to compete in sports, particularly basketball, with Doncic integral to their ambitions in the NBA and cricket.
