Luka Doncic expected to sign long-term extension to stay with Los Angeles Lakers through prime years
The Los Angeles Lakers appear poised to make Luka Doncic the long-term face of their franchise. After pulling off a shocking midseason trade to acquire the Slovenian star from the Dallas Mavericks, all signs now point to Doncic extending his stay in Los Angeles well beyond his current deal.
With the front office leaning into his leadership and input, insiders believe he's on track to sign a contract that could keep him in purple and gold for the next decade.
Los Angeles Lakers and Luka Doncic are reportedly moving toward long-term partnership
Luka Doncic looks set to remain the centerpiece of the Los Angeles Lakers for years to come. With the superstar guard eligible for a lucrative contract extension on August 2, league insiders are confident that the five-time All-NBA selection will commit to a long-term deal.
'Every indication is that they are building this thing around Luka with his input,' Lakers radio voice John Ireland said. 'And I'm convinced he's staying.
'
Los Angeles Lakers building around Luka Doncic with his input
Since the blockbuster midseason trade that sent Anthony Davis and Max Christie to Dallas in exchange for Luka Doncic , Maxi Kleber, and Markieff Morris, the Lakers have wasted no time shaping their future around their new franchise star. Doncic , still just 26, has already become involved in high-level team decisions, something he rarely engaged in during his Mavericks tenure.
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His offseason efforts include helping recruit former Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart and former No. 1 pick Deandre Ayton to Los Angeles. This level of investment from Doncic has been noted by Lakers insiders and media alike. 'They've all been talking like we are a partnership now,' said ESPN's Ramona Shelburne. 'This is not a player that's looking like he's going to leave as a free agent next year.'
The Lakers front office has also shown restraint in free agency, reportedly avoiding long-term deals that might jeopardize their 2027 cap flexibility.
This move is seen as part of their broader strategy to pair Doncic with a long-term co-star. Shelburne, doubling down on NBA Today, added, 'I would be very surprised if he did not extend with them... they're behaving and talking in forever terms.'
Luka Doncic's evolution signals deeper commitment for Los Angeles Lakers
While Doncic's talent has never been questioned, his sudden shift in leadership approach has caught many by surprise. According to ESPN's Tim McMahon, Doncic's role in player recruitment marks a turning point in his maturity and commitment to a franchise.
'That is not Luka's natural state,' McMahon said. 'The first several years of his career, he basically said, 'Hey, I play. The front office puts the team together.
''
But in Los Angeles, he's embraced a larger role. Brian Windhorst noted, 'The most important things for the Lakers are Luka-related.' Even as the team continues to reshape the roster, all eyes remain on Doncic 's looming extension. And while his camp hasn't signaled urgency, the vibe around the organization suggests confidence.
Also Read:
Marcus Smart Details Luka Doncic's Recruiting Pitch That Brought Him to the Lakers: How Los Angeles Landed Its Defensive Anchor
FAQs on Luka Doncic
When is Luka Doncic eligible to sign his extension with the Lakers?
He becomes eligible on August 2 to sign a four-year, $229 million deal.
Is Doncic involved in Lakers front office decisions?
Yes, he's actively helping recruit key players like Marcus Smart and Deandre Ayton.
How long is Doncic expected to stay in Los Angeles?
Insiders predict he'll remain with the Lakers for at least the next decade.
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