Star player Luka Doncic vows substantial monetary commitment upon securing the Lakers extension, potentially setting a new record for the NBA's highest-value contract, surpassing $500 million.
Luka Dončić Commits to Three-Year Extension with Los Angeles Lakers
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NBA, Luka Dončić has officially signed a three-year, $165 million extension with the Los Angeles Lakers. The Slovenian superstar announced the extension on social media, calling it "just the beginning."
Dončić's current contract extends through the 2027-28 season, with salaries roughly $45.9 million for the 2025-26 season and decreasing slightly in following years, with the player option salary around $55 million for the 2028-29 season. This contract provides the Lakers with flexibility going into 2026 free agency.
However, the most intriguing aspect of Dončić's deal is the structure that allows him to become an unrestricted free agent in 2028. If Dončić chooses to remain with the Lakers beyond 2028, he could be eligible for an unprecedented extension. NBA number cruncher Keith Smith projects the Lakers to have an estimated $54 million in cap space, which could rise to $84 million depending on Austin Reaves' cap hold.
If Dončić signs a max extension in 2028, his projected $417m deal would see him earn approximately $83.4m in annual average salary. This future deal would be unprecedented in NBA history, potentially making him the first player to earn about $80 million in a single NBA season and approaching $95 million in the final year, making him the highest-paid athlete in league salary terms.
Comparatively, Dončić's initial extension ($165 million over 3 years) is high but not the highest in NBA history. However, his prospective 2028 contract (5 years, $400+ million) would be the largest NBA contract ever by a wide margin. MLB contracts currently can exceed $400 million in total value, but annual salary rates are generally less than Dončić's projected NBA peak.
Dončić's transformation off the court has also been a topic of discussion. In an offseason workout video, Dončic displayed squatting 720lbs worth of plates and a slimmed-down physique. Some media personnel are skeptical about how quickly Doncic transformed his body.
Dončić has been criticized for his body conditioning by members of the Mavs organization. However, Lakers head coach JJ Redick emphasized the need for players to prioritize getting in optimal shape for the next season.
The trade of Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks to the Los Angeles Lakers in a blockbuster trade has also sparked speculation about his potential behaviour. The Mavericks' trade of Doncic has awakened a potential for him to play unkindly if disrespected, which could benefit the Lakers, whose future with LeBron James is uncertain.
Doncic has shown his commitment to the Lakers off the court as well. He has previously donated $500,000 to wildfire relief efforts in Los Angeles and $5,000 to restore a vandalized mural of Lakers icon, Kobe Bryant. He also pledged to donate $5 million to help young athletes fulfill their dreams.
With Dončić's contract extension, the Lakers have made a bold move to secure one of the best players in the league. The future of the Lakers, and Dončić, looks bright.
References:
- ESPN
- Los Angeles Times
- Sports Illustrated
- Forbes
- The Los Angeles Lakers have secured one of the best players in the sports world, as Luka Dončić has committed to a three-year extension with the team.
- Dončić's new deal will provide the Lakers with substantial cap space in 2026 free agency, and if he signs an extension in 2028, he could become the highest-paid athlete in NBA history.
- Some media personnel are skeptical about how Dončić transformed his body in a short period, a topic that has been a focus off the court.
- Comparatively, the initial extension for Dončić is high, but his prospective contract in 2028 would be the largest NBA contract ever by a significant margin, even surpassing certain MLB contracts in total value.
