What Stephen A. Smith Had to Say About Luka Doncic's $165 Million Los Angeles Lakers Extension
Luka Doncic
's three-year, $165 million extension with the
Los Angeles Lakers
sent shockwaves through the NBA world. But few reactions were as compelling—or as critical—as that of ESPN's
Stephen A. Smith
.
Known for his sharp opinions and no-nonsense delivery, Smith offered a nuanced take on the Lakers' decision to secure their future around the 25-year-old Slovenian star.
'Foregone Conclusion'—But Pressure Comes Next
Stephen A. Smith
began by saying the extension was hardly a surprise. 'I think it was a foregone conclusion. I think anybody with sense knew it was going to come down to this,' he stated, pointing to the allure of the Lakers' legacy and the inevitability of locking in a superstar like Luka Doncic long-term.
From Smith's perspective, the Lakers made the obvious choice to build their post-LeBron James era around a generational talent. For Doncic, it's an opportunity to step onto a global stage few franchises can offer.
Yet, Stephen A. Smith was quick to caution that this extension comes with sky-high expectations. Wearing the purple and gold, he said, is about more than talent—it's about meeting the weight of legacy.
Praise for Luka's Offseason Shape—But a Warning Follows
Stephen A. gave credit where it's due, acknowledging
Luka Doncic
's improved fitness.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Rajafair Knee Pain Treatments Might Surprise You
Knee Pain Treatment | Search Ads
Undo
'When you see him having lost this weight, you get excited,' he said. A leaner Luka brings not just better mobility, but the potential for increased defensive presence and off-ball movement.
Still, Stephen A. Smith wasn't letting go of his signature skepticism: 'There's a difference between getting in shape in the offseason and staying in shape during the season… That's where it's going to really, really show.'
He emphasized that Luka Doncic's ability to sustain this transformation over the full NBA grind remains unproven.
The Hollywood appearances and magazine spreads may draw attention, but the real test will be consistency—something Smith feels Doncic hasn't mastered yet.
A New Chapter in Lakers Leadership
Beyond the stats, Smith's focus shifted to leadership and legacy. He reminded fans that being a Laker comes with intense media attention and constant comparisons to legends of the past. It's a stage that amplifies both greatness and shortcomings.
Luka Doncic, Stephen A.
Smith said, must now grow as a leader. This extension isn't just about points and highlights—it's about stepping into a role that demands responsibility, vocal leadership, and the maturity to guide a team through the highs and lows of a season.
Stephen A. Smith's reaction to Luka Doncic's contract extension strikes a familiar balance: enthusiasm tempered with realism. While he sees tremendous potential in the deal, he's clear that the Lakers' gamble on Doncic will only pay off if the star embraces everything that comes with the jersey—from conditioning and defense to leadership and championship expectations.
Also read:
Rob Pelinka Reflects on Luka Doncic Trade and Contract Extension: A Franchise-Defining Gamble That Paid Off
'Let's see what the brother does now,' Smith concluded. The money is in the bank. The spotlight is on. Now, it's Luka's move.
For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the
India vs England Test match
here.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Luka Doncic returns to Slovenia as he prepares to lead the National team in EuroBasket 2025
Luka Doncic returned to Slovenia (Image via Instagram / @lukadoncic) NBA pro Luka Doncic recently signed a contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers in the USA. Now, he is back with the Slovenian national team. After signing the contract, he returned to Slovenia and began assisting the national team in their preparations for today's EuroBasket. He has a history with the team as he won the 2017 EuroBasket with Slovenia and has represented the nation at the 2021 Olympics and, 2022 EuroBasket. Luka Doncic set to lead Slovenia in EuroBasket 2025 after signing new contract Luka Doncic was in Los Angeles a few days back, where he signed a new contract with the Los Angeles Lakers. To stay with the club, he signed a three-year contract worth 165 million euros. After the official press conference, he went back to Slovenia and attended the Slovenian national team training camp before the 2025 EuroBasket. The star guard will be available for Friday's friendly match against Germany, according to Slovenia's head coach Aleksander Sekulic. He also expressed his excitement about the pro rejoining the team. On Monday, the head coach also told reporters: "Everyone is looking forward to Luka, but in the meantime, we're sticking to the work we've been doing… We're refining the things we've already established, and now we'll adapt them to him. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Do you have a mouse? Play this for 1 minute and see why everyone is crazy about it. Play Game Undo Luka is also expected to play against Germany — at least, that's the plan.' He then said: "The players are eager to have him. Every time he comes, he naturally has an impact on the team, both on and off the court, always in a positive way. We want certain elements to already be tailored to him by the time he arrives so that we can make the most of his abilities..' He also underlined that the players are looking forward to Luka Doncic's arrival and that everything would be modified for him. Luka Doncic recently joined the Los Angeles Lakers (Image via Instagram / @lukadoncic) He then said: 'We're following the plan, everything will be adapted to the captain. The players are eagerly waiting for him, he has a strong impact on the team, not just on the court. I'm glad he showed a high level of motivation ahead of the European Championship. He wants to show that, if we approach the job the right way, we can achieve a lot at the European Championship.' Currently, Slovenia is getting ready to play Israel, Poland, France, Belgium, and Iceland in Group D of the EuroBasket preliminary round in Katowice. They are lucky to have Luka Doncic leading them. Also read: Was Luka Doncic's weight loss natural? Gilbert Arenas says it's Ozempic, but star credits diet and training Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
India Today
4 hours ago
- India Today
Manchester United submit first bid for RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko: Report
Manchester United have reportedly submitted an improved offer for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, as the race intensifies for the highly-rated Slovenian to The Athletic, United have tabled a bid worth 75 million plus 10 million in add-ons, narrowly surpassing Newcastle United's previous offer of 75 million with 5 million in add-ons. The report suggests that informal talks between United and Leipzig have already begun, with the club prioritising the signing of a striker this has been one of Europe's most closely watched attacking talents in recent years, having made a significant impact in the Bundesliga. The 21-year-old scored 21 goals across all competitions last season and has amassed 39 goals and 8 assists in 87 appearances for Leipzig since joining in 2023. Manchester United's interest in Sesko signals their intent to rebuild their attack under new manager Ruben Amorim, following a disastrous 2024–25 campaign that saw the club finish 15th in the Premier League and lose the Europa League final to Tottenham. The club has already brought in Matheus Cunha from Wolves and Bryan Mbuemo from Brentford, both with Premier League FAILED PURSUITS FOR UNITEDEarlier in the window, United had also considered a move for Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins, but talks stalled due to Villa's steep valuation. With other targets like Joao Pedro and Liam Delap heading to Chelsea, Sesko has emerged as one of the few remaining elite striker options the Red Devils are not alone in the pursuit. Newcastle United are also in the mix, looking for a replacement should Alexander Isak push through a reported move to Liverpool. Sesko, who rose to prominence at RB Salzburg, is said to be open to joining either Premier League for their part, is believed to be holding out for a valuation closer to 80 million. Whether United's offer is enough to seal the deal remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the battle for Sesko is heating up.- Ends
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
Luka Doncic reportedly declining 2028-29 player option after shocking NBA with first-ever $80 million salary
Luka Doncic. Image via: Getty Images The Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic recently signed a contract extension of $165 million for 3 years with his team. This contract marked the greatest achievement for him, as he was put into the top 25 player career earnings of all time. At the end of this career extension, he could potentially earn $417 million in five years, meaning he could get an average annual salary of over $80 million. However, sources claim that Luka Doncic intended to opt out of a $57.58 million player option for a record-breaking NBA contract. He wants to stay with the Lakers on a long-term basis. He wants to become the first player to sign a $400 million+ contract for the year 2028-29 in the history of the NBA. Luka Doncic is rumored to decline 2028-29 player option after a record-breaking $80 million salary After a major drift in Luka Doncic's physique, which made him the center of attraction , Luka Doncic signed a 3-year contract worth $165 million with the Lakers. However, a source told the Lakers Media Daily that Luka Doncic is expected to abandon the 2028-29 player option and will sign a contract with the Lakers worth $400 million. This would make him the first NBA player to earn $80 million a year. Luka Doncic signed a 3-year $165 million contract with the Los Angeles Lakers Earlier this Saturday, Lakers star Luka Doncic signed a contract extension of $165 million for 3 years with the Los Angeles Lakers, confirmed Shams Charania. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Villas Prices In Dubai Might Be More Affordable Than You Think Villas In Dubai | Search Ads Get Quote Undo His first six months with the team had gained him just the right amount of attention that an NBA player needs. 'Being a Laker is an honor, and I wanted to be here', said Luka Doncic. 'When you look up here, so many great names and what they've achieved. I want to be up there too one day.' According to a source, Luka Doncic wants to stay committed to the Lakers throughout his NBA career. 'It's an honor playing for this organization,' the Slovanian superstar said. 'Many, many great players played here, so obviously I want to add one more up there. That's what we're working for.' What could possibly be the strategy for the Los Angeles Lakers after LeBron James leaves? LeBron James is another great player of the Lakers. Having him would mean that the team is bound to win. However, the next two seasons would see the NBA legend potentially retiring from the league. Therefore, Luka Doncic would need a co-player who could match up to his level of energy. With LeBron James's news, fans are suspecting Nikola Jokic to join the Lakers as a free agent. Also read: Bronny James raises eyebrows with comment on GF Parker Whitefield's vacation pictures as he skips Luka Doncic event Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
