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Lakers GM Rob Pelinka Responds to Massive Luka Doncic Extension

Originally posted on Los Angeles Lakers on SI
By Sam Garcia | Last updated Aug 2, 2025 2:30 PM ET

Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Doncic has reportedly agreed to a three-year, $165 million maximum contract extension, which also includes a player option for 2028, per ESPN’s Sham Charania.

“Today is a monumental moment for our franchise. Luka Dončić’s future is with the Los Angeles Lakers. Luka is one of the game’s most transcendent players, and his on-court dominance and passion is without compare,” Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka said after the extension agreement, per Mike Trudell of Lakers.com.

“From the moment Luka became a Laker, there was an immediate connection and admiration between Luka and our fanbase," Pelinka added. "You can feel it in your spirit when you attend a Lakers game. Luka is an absolute killer on the court, and blends that with a unique generosity and care for the community. Above all else, Luka will lead our franchise to pursue future championships, a goal that will forever define the Lakers.”

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Lakers President of Basketball Operations and GM Rob Pelinka:

“Today is a monumental moment for our franchise. Luka Dončić’s future is with the Los Angeles Lakers. Luka is one of the game’s most transcendent players, and his on-court dominance and passion is without compare.… https://t.co/rYQgs1ZbhZ
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) August 2, 2025

The Lakers shocked the NBA when they traded veteran Anthony Davis to the Dallas Mavericks for Doncic in February. Ever since then, Doncic has become the new face of the franchise.

Like four-time NBA champion LeBron James has had throughout the years, Doncic has gained a lot of influence over the Lakers’ decisions.

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The five-time NBA All-Star requested to play with Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart, who both signed with Los Angeles this offseason. Doncic also influenced the Lakers’ decision to trade for center Mark Williams from the Charlotte Hornets, which initially was agreed upon by the franchises but ultimately got cancelled after Williams failed his physical examination.

Securing Doncic for at least the next three seasons is the best decision the Lakers’ front office has made this offseason. Los Angeles has expressed their plan is to build around the young forward-guard, who is only 26 years old.

Doncic has also stated he wants to win a championship with the Lakers. He has yet to win an NBA title in his seven-season career but said in an “Insider’s Look" Lakers interview on July 19 that he wants to be “the guy that brought championships to the city, for sure.”

As James enters what could be the final season of his career, the Lakers have acquired a new star who they hope will lead the franchise to another NBA championship.

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For more news and notes on the Los Angeles Lakers, visit Los Angeles Lakers on SI.

This article first appeared on FanNation All Lakers and was syndicated with permission.

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