Luka Doncic Helped Lakers Land Deandre Ayton And Marcus Smart While Getting Into Best Shape Of His Career
Luka Doncic may not have publicly addressed his future with the Los Angeles Lakers yet, but his actions behind the scenes this summer speak louder than any statement.
With an extension decision looming on August 2, the 26-year-old superstar has already acted like the franchise cornerstone, recruiting key free agents, reshaping the roster to fit his vision, and undergoing a dramatic physical transformation that has teammates and rivals alike buzzing.
Doncic reportedly played a central role in helping the Lakers land both Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart. After both players unexpectedly became available via contract buyouts, league sources confirmed that Luka personally reached out, pitched the Lakers' vision, and helped close the deals.
These weren't just random additions, they were exactly the kind of players Doncic requested. He had communicated to the front office his desire for a rim-running big, perimeter defense, and shooting depth. In response, the Lakers brought in Ayton, Smart, and sharpshooter Jake LaRavia, effectively checking every box.
This proactive approach is a far cry from the uncertainty many expected after the stunning midseason trade that brought Doncic to Los Angeles. That deal one of the most seismic moves in recent NBA history, blindsiding Luka, who never imagined being dealt by Dallas.
Yet rather than sulking or demanding immediate changes, Doncic has leaned in, committed to building something sustainable in Los Angeles. That commitment, insiders say, is one of the main reasons the Lakers remain optimistic about locking him into a long-term deal next month.
And it's not just front-office collaboration that has people talking. Doncic has spent the offseason in Europe, but not for vacation. Instead, he's been focused on what many are calling a 'revenge glow-up,' getting into the best shape of his life ahead of EuroBasket.
Gone is the lingering fatigue or soft conditioning critics used to target. In its place is a leaner, faster, and more explosive Luka, determined to silence doubters and dominate in his new purple-and-gold threads.
Behind closed doors, the Lakers are thrilled. Head coach JJ Redick and GM Rob Pelinka reportedly believe this version of Luka Doncic is fitter, sharper, and more engaged, which could lead the team deeper than most expect.
That optimism is only magnified by the supporting cast. Rui Hachimura is coming off his best season and shooting above 40 percent from deep. Austin Reaves and LeBron James will have a full training camp to build chemistry with Luka.
And Ayton, in a contract year, has every reason to be the best version of himself alongside an elite pick-and-roll partner.
Meanwhile, LaRavia will finally get steady minutes, and Smart, if healthy, brings Defensive Player of the Year pedigree to the backcourt. The Lakers have pulled this off while retaining their 2031 first-round pick and keeping young assets like Dalton Knecht.
In a summer filled with chaos, the Lakers have quietly moved with clarity, and Doncic has been at the heart of it all. Now, all eyes are on August 2. Because if this is the version of Luka the Lakers get moving forward, the extension won't just be a formality, it'll be the start of something special.This story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jul 20, 2025, where it first appeared.
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