NBA Writer Hands Lakers Clear Grade for Luka Doncic Decision

The Los Angeles Lakers have signed Luka Dončić to a long-term contract extension shortly after acquiring him from the Dallas Mavericks during the 2024-2025 NBA season. The move has been widely praised, with the Lakers receiving a positive offseason grade for securing Dončić's future with the franchise.

Dončić's new deal is a three-year extension worth over $160 million. He will complete the final year of his current contract, earning $45.9 million in the 2025-2026 season, before starting the new extension with approximately $49.6 million in 2026-2027. The contract includes a player option for $57.5 million in 2028.

The Lakers were motivated to extend Dončić quickly to avoid the risk of him leaving as an unrestricted free agent in 2026. Reports indicate that the team leveraged his potential free agency to retain additional first-round picks in the trade with Dallas. The front office viewed the extension as essential to avoid criticism similar to what the Mavericks faced for not securing a long-term commitment.

Since joining the Lakers, Dončić has demonstrated his elite talent, averaging 28.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists in 28 regular-season games. In the playoffs, he elevated his performance to 30.2 points, 7 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game over five appearances. Throughout his 450-game career, he has maintained averages of 28.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 8.2 assists.

The Lakers are counting on Dončić to lead the team back to the Western Conference Finals and make a push for the NBA Finals, something the franchise has not achieved since 2020. With LeBron James still on the roster, the organization hopes the Dončić extension will yield immediate success and help James win another championship before retiring.