Luka Dončić gets massive contract update after first season with Lakers | Sporting News

When the Los Angeles Lakers acquired Luka Doncic in a blockbuster trade midseason, the expectations soared.

After watching Doncic carry a Dallas Mavericks squad all the way to the NBA Finals last season, fans saw no reason why he couldn't do the same with the Lakers.

For a couple of different reasons, that run came to an end in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs, losing in five to the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Now, some uncomfortable questions surround Los Angeles regarding their future with the Slovenian superstar.

Doncics future with Los Angeles is cloudy, as he came to the Lakers with two years remaining on his current contract and no agreement in place on an extension.

Jovan Buha and Sam Amick of The Athletic detailed the current saga.

"Depending on Doncics preference, he has multiple pathways to his next contract.

Beginning on Aug.

2, he can sign a four-year, $229 million extension.

To recoup the money he lost in the trade from losing his supermax eligibility, Doncic could sign a shorter three-year, $165 million extension, with a player option for 2028-29 that would coincide with reaching 10 years of service to be eligible for the 35 percent max.

In that scenario, he could sign a five-year, $418 million deal in the 2028 offseason." Before the start of the postseason, Doncic told ESPN that he wants to remain with the Lakers long term.

Things move fast in the NBA, though, and this year's sentiments can be next year's broken promises.

Just ask Kyrie Irving and Boston Celtics fans.

It's possible that if Los Angeles can't put a team around Doncic that is to his satisfaction, he could potentially jump ship.

A post shared by Malika Andrews (@malika_andrews) If the Lakers want to be proactive in keeping their newest superstar happy, they will lean on him this offseason when it comes to potential free agents or trade acquisitions.

LeBron James will most likely have a say in things as well, as the 40-year-old has a player option this Summer.

Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp Regardless of which route Doncic decides to go, the Lakers would be handing out one of the largest contracts in NBA history.

He could decide altogether to not sign anything, and test free agency in the Summer of 2026.

MORE LAKERS NEWS: Lakers reportedly have JJ Redick offseason verdict after early playoff exit Lakers LeBron James throws shade at Kentucky legend Anthony Davis following crushing series loss Lakers trade proposal reunites Luka Doncic with $40 million Mavericks starter.

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