How Does Luka Doncic's Extension with Lakers Impact OKC Thunder?

One of Oklahoma City’s biggest challengers is set for the next few years.

On Saturday, the Los Angeles Lakers signed superstar Luka Doncic to a three-year, $165 million extension, as first reported by Marc Stein. With Doncic now set to be in Los Angeles throughout his prime, the former Dallas Maverick will be leading the Lakers on their quest for an 18th championship.

When the Mavericks traded Doncic to Los Angeles in February, it was seen as one of the most shocking moves in league history. Although there were some questions about Doncic’s long-term future with the Lakers after the deal, Saturday’s extension answered any that were remaining.

Along with handing the Lakers a young superstar entering his prime, the Mavericks also gifted the storied franchise a bright future. Assuming the Lakers can continue to build around Doncic, he should be leading one of the league’s best teams moving forward.

Thunder-Lakers Playoff Battles?

Last season, many folks picked the Lakers to match up against the Thunder in the Western Conference Finals. However, the Lakers went out in five games in an embarrassing first-round performance.

Although that series against the Minnesota Timberwolves didn’t go Los Angeles’ way, the team still has plenty to look forward to. With Doncic at the helm, the Lakers should be a contender in the West for years to come, which will likely mean some playoff matchups against the Thunder.

For the Thunder, that could mean a lot of things. With the teams as currently constructed, the Thunder would likely have a significant advantage in a playoff series.

With the Lakers’ weakness inside and roster of misfits around the big three, the Thunder’s depth could shine through. However, the Lakers still have one of the top duos in the league with Doncic and LeBron James. Add in Austin Reaves, and the Lakers have three guys who can create for themselves at a high level, which is crucial in the playoffs.

Although the fit isn’t perfect, the Lakers now have Doncic on the squad for the next few years, meaning they should have time to build an ideal team around him. That ideal team would feature some two-way lob threats, 3-and-D wings and forwards and perhaps another star alongside him.