Los Angeles Lakers Luka Doncic is interviewed by ESPN LA radio following a press conference announcing the signing of a 3-year, $165 million contract extension at UCLA Health Training Center Saturday. (Imagn Images
EL SEGUNDO, California: Luka Doncic’s initial half year with the Los Angeles Lakers provided him ample insight into a dazzling future with his new team. He observes championship banners, trophies, and team achievements while residing in a vibrant city and competing for an internationally renowned team. He imagines his name and number hanging in the rafters next to all the other legendary players who donned the Lakers’ gold uniform. Doncic progressed further in making his dreams a reality on Saturday by agreeing to a three-year, $165 million maximum contract extension with the Lakers, avoiding a shot at free agency next summer. “Playing for the Lakers is a privilege, and I aimed to be here,” Doncic stated at a press conference beneath the championship banners and retired jerseys decorating the gym at the Lakers’ training facility. “When you glance up here, numerous esteemed names and their accomplishments.” “I aspire to reach that level someday as well.” The agreement is expected to retain the 26-year-old Doncic in Los Angeles until 2028 with a player option for the last year, after which he can qualify for a substantial five-year extension that may enable him to recover the maximum salary he forfeited by being traded from Dallas. The Slovenian star possessed a player option for the 2026-27 season in his former contract. An individual familiar with the agreement verified the conditions to The Associated Press. The individual requested to remain unnamed as the Lakers do not disclose contract details publicly.
The Lakers obtained Doncic from the Mavericks last February in a major trade for Anthony Davis. The five-time All-Star and five-time All-NBA selection posted averages of 28.2 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.7 rebounds per game last season, partnering with LeBron James for 50 wins and securing the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference playoffs. Despite his inaugural season in Los Angeles concluding with a first-round playoff defeat to Minnesota, the high-scoring guard expresses that he thoroughly relished his initial time in Hollywood — sufficiently to pledge to the Lakers for the remainder of his 20s, and very likely even longer. “Playing for this organization is a privilege,” Doncic expressed. “Numerous outstanding players have competed here, so clearly I aim to elevate one more alongside them.” “That’s what we aim for.” In yet another indication of his renewed enthusiasm, Doncic stated that he has been engaging in rigorous summer conditioning and strength training after the Mavericks’ concerns regarding his dedication to the game allegedly contributed to his unexpected exit from Dallas. Doncic appeared fit and agile at his press conference, laughing as he remarked he’ll “clearly be a little bit quicker” in the upcoming season. “Simply aiming to assist the team in terms of conditioning,” Doncic stated. “Competing for many minutes and in numerous games, so I believe it will be the most beneficial for me.”
