NBA star Luka Doncic inks three-year contract extension with Los Angeles Lakers team.
Luka Dončić Signs Three-Year, $165 Million Extension with Los Angeles Lakers
Luka Dončić has cemented his future with the Los Angeles Lakers, as he signed a three-year, $165 million contract extension on the first day he was eligible in August 2025. This extension includes a player option in 2028, effectively allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent in 2028 or 2029.
The strategic choice by Dončić trades guaranteed money now for the flexibility and upside of a historically lucrative extension after 2028. With his star status and projected team salary cap growth, projections anticipate that by 2027 or 2028, the Lakers can offer Dončić a four-year, $323 million deal or, if he declines the 2028-29 player option, a five-year extension worth around $418 million in his age-29 season. The potential future deal could include a league-first season salary near $80 million, approaching $95 million in a later year.
Dončić's own words indicate that the Lakers have done a fine job of making him feel comfortable and happy. "I'm grateful to the Lakers, my teammates, and the fans who have shown me love since joining the team," he said. "This is just the beginning of my tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers."
Rob Pelinka, the Lakers' General Manager and President of Basketball Operations, expressed excitement about Dončić's future with the franchise. "Luka Dončić is one of the game's most transcendent players," Pelinka said. "We're thrilled to have him as a cornerstone of our team and look forward to building something special together."
With the league's salary cap approaching $200 million thanks to the $7 billion per year the league is receiving for its media rights, the Lakers are well-positioned to continue building a championship-caliber team around Dončić. Dončić shared the news of his extension with his fan base on social media, posting a photo from the signing and a message for Laker Nation expressing his excitement to work towards bringing championships to LA.
If Dončić exercises his player option, he can sign a more lucrative five-year, $417 million contract in 2028. The Lakers organization, teammates, and fans have provided Dončić and his family with support and kindness since his arrival, and Dončić believes in what the Lakers are building and is committed to working hard to bring another championship to Los Angeles. Dončić is excited for what's ahead and to continue building something special with the team.
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