Luka Doncic commits to Lakers with $165M extension

The Los Angeles Lakers have firmly locked in their superstar guard by signing Luka Doncic to a three-year, $165 million max contract extension, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.

The deal, which runs through the 2028-29 season, has a player option in the final year.

Since being shockingly traded midseason last year from the Mavericks, Doncic has dazzled Lakers fans by averaging 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists over 28 games, helping elevate L.A. to the 3rd seed in the Western Conference. Lakers president Rob Pelinka hailed the signing as a “monumental moment,” praising Dončić’s on-court dominance and leadership value.

Speaking at the team’s practice facility, Doncic shared, “I’m going to keep working as hard as I can to bring another championship to Los Angeles… this is just the beginning.” He acknowledged the fans’ support, stating he felt embraced “since day one” in purple and gold. The deal rescinds his previously scheduled 2026-27 player option and removes him from next summer’s free agency pool. 

ANALYSIS: This move by the Lakers highlights their cap strategy & future upside, as though Doncic were eligible for a 4-year, $229M deal, he opted for a shorter term, retaining the potential to negotiate a possible five-year, $417M contract in 2028. This contract structure balances immediate value with long-term worth, given projected cap growth.

This also signals a rebrand & renewal for Doncic and the Lakers, fresh off criticism over the former’s conditioning. Doncic’s offseason transformation – captured in Men’s Health – means a new chapter for the 26-year-old superstar. Lakers coach JJ Redick and team leadership emphasize his commitment to physical shape as the foundation for contention. 

By signing Luka Dončić long-term, the Lakers made their franchise pivot official. He will serve as the centerpiece of Los Angeles’ future championship aspirations and represents a seamless shift to the next era of Lakers basketball. With intent, ambition, and renewed focus, both player and team reaffirm that purple and gold are his home for the journey ahead.