'The Most Important Thing in the Whole NBA' – Insider Explains Luka Doncic’s Contract Situation With the Los Angeles Lakers

On Wednesday, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst talked about the importance of Doncic’s upcoming contract negotiation with the Lakers. According to him, it will affect the franchise’s future and the moves the entire league will make.

“I almost would argue the most important thing in the whole NBA this summer is Luka Doncic, whether he extends or not, because that frames so much of what the Lakers are going to do, and frankly, the whole league would do,” Windhorst said.

“I don’t want to put too much pressure on it, but the Lakers will need to get him locked down. Even if it’s just for a couple of years to verify that he’s bought in to what they’re doing.”

ESPN’s Dave McMenamin reported that the Los Angeles Lakers could offer him a four-year, $229 million extension. However, Doncic could also sign a “three-year, $165 million extension with a player option in 2028.”

The Los Angeles Lakers signs a new center

The Los Angeles Lakers found their new starting center in Deandre Ayton. On Wednesday, the big man signed a two-year, $16.6 million contract to join the Lakers. The two-year deal features a player option in the second year, ESPN’s Shams Charania confirmed.

According to reports, Doncic was excited after the Lakers acquired the former No. 1 pick. He’s the perfect center to play with the Slovenian star because of how athletic he is. The big man is a capable pick-and-roll partner, which is ideal when playing next to the five-time All-NBA.

Last season, he averaged 14.4 points, 10.2 rebounds and 1.6 assists. The Los Angeles Lakers believe they can contend for the title next season with Ayton as the center.