Luka Doncic agrees to long-term contract extension with Lakers
But that will not be happening. On Saturday, the first day he was eligible to do so, he agreed to a three-year, $165 extension, per ESPN.
"Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic has agreed to a three-year, $165 million maximum contract extension, with a player option in 2028, agent Bill Duffy of WME Basketball told ESPN," wrote Shams Charania.
"The critical new deal keeps Doncic out of free agency next summer, eliminating his 2026-27 player option in place of the new contract."
This extension puts the 26-year-old in position for an even bigger payday in a few years.
"Doncic could opt out in 2028 and sign a new deal for 35% of the salary cap, which projects to five years and $417 million. In doing so, Doncic would recoup all the money lost when he was traded by the Dallas Mavericks, with whom he had been eligible to sign a five-year, $315 million supermax extension this summer."
Doncic played well as a member of the Lakers this past season, but he was clearly out of shape and a bit hobbled. However, once they were knocked out of the first round of the playoffs, he instantly embarked on a physical transformation that has had everyone talking lately.
Some people around the league feel that, as a result of his new physique, Doncic could be ready to put forth an MVP campaign this coming season.
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