Luka Doncic sparks NBA buzz with bold Los Angeles Lakers contract moves aiming at $406 million mega deal
The Los Angeles Lakers could soon lock down their new star player, but the contract might not be what most fans expect. With Luka Doncic now eligible for a huge extension, many are watching to see what kind of deal he signs.
Reports suggest the All-Star might have a smarter long-term plan in mind, one that could change how big NBA stars approach their future deals.
Luka Doncic may take shorter deal with Los Angeles Lakers to aim for massive 2028 payday
On July 8, NBA insider John Hollinger from The Athletic reported that Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic may sign a shorter extension instead of a full four-year deal this summer. Doncic, who was traded to the Lakers earlier this year, becomes eligible for a four-year, $223 million extension on August 2, 2025.
— maverick_szn (@maverick_szn)
However, because he was traded, Luka cannot sign for a full supermax contract yet. Hollinger noted that it is 'vastly more likely' Doncic will sign a three-year, $161 million deal that includes a player option in the final year. This move would position Doncic to hit 10-year veteran status in summer 2028, making him eligible for a projected five-year, $406 million contract under the 35% max rule.
According to Hollinger, 'If he were to void his player option in 2026 and sign a three-year deal with a 2028-29 player option, he could line himself up for the biggest payday of his career.'
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Los Angeles Lakers prefer long-term deal but will accept any contract to keep Luka Doncic on the roster
Luka Doncic is only 26 years old and has a $48.9 million player option for the 2026-27 NBA season. That means Doncic could walk away as a free agent in the summer of 2026 if nothing is signed before then. But people around the league think the Lakers won't let that happen. They're expected to make sure he stays with them through at least 2028.
Even if they don't get the full four-year commitment, the Lakers are reportedly happy to keep Doncic from entering free agency next year.
The Lakers know how important it is to keep Luka Doncic feeling good about his future. They also know that being flexible with money now might help later. Even if Luka signs a shorter deal, they believe it's worth it.
He is one of the best players in the league. Having him in Los Angeles on any kind of deal is a big win. People close to the team say they understand Luka's plan. And they're okay with it, as long as he stays in purple and gold.
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NBA blow as Tyrese Haliburton ruled out and Myles Turner exits spark Indiana Pacers collapse
Fans can expect more updates once Luka Doncic becomes eligible to sign the extension on August 2.
Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
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