The Los Angeles Lakers agreed to a three-year, $165 million contract extension with star point guard Luka Doncic on Saturday. The deal includes a player option for 2028, positioning Doncic to potentially sign another max contract before he turns 30, assuming his performance continues on its current trajectory. "I just signed my extension with the Lakers," Doncic wrote.
Rob Pelinka Sends Strong Message About LeBron James Following Luka Doncic Extension originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Los Angeles Lakers agreed to a three-year, $165 million contract extension with star point guard Luka Doncic on Saturday.
The deal includes a player option for 2028, positioning Doncic to potentially sign another max contract before he turns 30, assuming his performance continues on its current trajectory.
"I just signed my extension with the Lakers," Doncic wrote. "Excited to keep working to bring championships to LA and make Laker Nation proud. Grateful to the Lakers, my teammates, and all the fans who’ve shown so much love since day one. This is just the beginning."
Shortly after the announcement, Doncic held a press conference in Los Angeles alongside Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka, with several teammates and coaches in attendance.
Most of the Lakers roster here supporting Luka as he announces his new max contract. pic.twitter.com/Ihdqa4p9HB
— Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) August 2, 2025
When asked about LeBron James—who recently opted into the final year of his player option as he prepares for his 23rd NBA season at age 41—Pelinka delivered a strong message.
He emphasized that the Lakers would love for LeBron to finish his career in Los Angeles but made it clear that the team will fully support whatever decisions James makes about his future and timeline.
"All the interactions we've had with LeBron and his camp Rich in particular have been positive and supportive," Pelinka said. "We want to respect his ability to come up with his timetable. If he had a chance to retire a Laker that would be great"
Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
LeBron James has spent the last seven seasons in Los Angeles and played a key role in leading the Lakers to the 2020 NBA championship. His camp has made it clear that his goal is to maximize whatever window he has left to compete for another title—whether that’s with the Lakers or elsewhere.
However, with Luka Doncic prioritizing his health and currently in the best shape of his career, staying in L.A. might be the best fit for him.
The Lakers’ roster is shaping up well, with LeBron’s son Bronny entering his second year, and key additions like two-way guard Marcus Smart, center Deandre Ayton, and Jake LaRavia. The team will also return core players Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, and Jaxson Hayes, creating a strong foundation moving forward.
Related: Luka Doncic Earns Praise for Surprising $5 Million Decision Following Lakers Extension
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 2, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: Basketball
