Luka Doncic has locked in his future with the Lakers, agreeing to a massive three-year, $165 million extension that includes a player option in 2028, his agent Bill Duffy told ESPN’s Shams Charania on Saturday.
The deal keeps the superstar guard in purple and gold for the foreseeable future and takes him off next summer’s free agent market.
This is huge news for Lakers fans who’ve quickly embraced Doncic as their new franchise cornerstone.
“I’m really grateful to the Lakers organization, my teammates and the fans for welcoming me and my family with so much support and kindness since day one,” Doncic said in a statement.
The 26-year-old star was traded to Los Angeles just six months ago in a blockbuster deal that sent Anthony Davis to Dallas. It was the Lakers’ biggest acquisition since trading for Kobe Bryant back in 1996.
The Money Details
By signing now, Doncic eliminates his previous 2026-27 player option that was part of the five-year, $215.15 million extension he originally signed with Dallas in 2021.
The five-time All-Star could potentially set himself up for an even bigger payday down the road.
According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, if Doncic opts out in 2028, he could sign a new deal worth a staggering 35% of the salary cap – projecting to five years and $417 million.
This strategic move would help him recover all the money lost when the Mavericks traded him, as he would have been eligible for a five-year, $315 million supermax extension with Dallas this summer.
He was also eligible for a four-year, $229 million max extension with the Lakers, but clearly preferred the flexibility of this shorter deal with the player option.
Championship Dreams
“This is an amazing organization, and I truly believe in what we’re building together,” Doncic added in his statement. “I’m going to keep working as hard as I can to bring another championship to Los Angeles and to make Laker Nation proud.”
Lakers GM Rob Pelinka didn’t hold back his excitement about securing their new star.
“Luka is an absolute killer on the court, and blends that with a unique generosity and care for the community,” Pelinka said. “Above all else, Luka will lead our franchise to pursue future championships, a goal that will forever define the Lakers.”
Doncic made an immediate impact in his first partial season with the team.
In just 28 games with the Lakers, he averaged 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists while shooting nearly 38% from three-point range.
He led the team in points, rebounds, assists, steals, and three-pointers per game.
“This is just the beginning,” Doncic promised. “I’m excited for what’s ahead and to keep building something special with this team.”
