Report: Lakers 'confident' in securing All-NBA star's long-term future

The NBA world was turned upside down earlier this year when Luka Doncic was sent to the Los Angeles Lakers under the cover of darkness. The deal saw Anthony Davis head to the Dallas Mavericks.

Nevertheless, it quickly became apparent that the Lakers were rolling the dice by acquiring Doncic. The five-time All-Star only had one more fully-guaranteed year on his contract, with a player option for the 2026-27 season. Therefore, Rob Pelinka would need to convince him to re-sign with the franchise. 

Fortunately for the Lakers, there's been nothing but encouraging signs of Doncic putting down roots this summer. According to Dan Woike of The Athletic, Doncic has played an active role in recruiting talent to the franchise this summer.

"While Doncic hasn’t directly addressed his future with the franchise this summer — time he’s spent in Europe putting together an all-time revenge glow-up — his actions behind the scenes crystalize why the Lakers are confident with how things stand," Woike reported. "Doncic, according to league sources, had communicated his desires for a capable rim-running center, shooting help and defensive support. The Lakers responded by filling those needs with Deandre Ayton, Jake LaRavia and, soon, Marcus Smart."

Doncic's arrival in Los Angeles has triggered narratives of change within the franchise. LeBron James' future with the Lakers has been a hot topic. Pelinka is clearly prioritizing building around the younger star, with James now seen as an expiring contract. 

Still, the Lakers knew they were trading for their future when they acquired Doncic. They put themselves in a position where they had to work with and appease the potential MVP. Los Angeles has held up its end of the bargain. They've given Doncic everything he needs to compete, while retaining flexibility for the summer of 2027. 

Now, Lakers fans will wait for August 2 with bated breath. That is when Doncic is free to sign an extension with the franchise. And if his actions this summer are any indication, it would appear he's buying into being the Lakers' latest superstar. 

Still, nothing is guaranteed, and until the ink on his extension is dry, there will be a level of uneasiness amongst fans. Doncic is, after all, a generational talent. And for that reason, we can't safely assume the Lakers are done making moves. If Doncic wants more movement, then that is what we will see. 

After all, the Lakers are his team now.