Lakers Sign Luka Doncic $165M Extension Amid LeBron James Absence

The Los Angeles Lakers have secured Luka Doncic with a three-year, $165 million contract extension, signaling a major commitment to the 26-year-old superstar following his trade from the Dallas Mavericks. Doncic has taken a prominent leadership role in the Lakers' offseason, notably influencing the recruitment of key defensive players like Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart, which highlights a shift in team dynamics with Luka emerging as a central figure. Despite Doncic's rising influence, he openly supports LeBron James, valuing his elite-level play and expressing a desire for James to retire with the Lakers, underscoring a continued partnership between the two stars. LeBron’s absence from Doncic's contract announcement press conference and ongoing trade speculation have fueled rumors about his future, although no definitive move has been made as he remains under evaluation along with the Lakers' direction. The Lakers are poised with significant salary cap flexibility for the 2026 free agency, which could further shape their roster and championship aspirations. Luka’s fitness and conditioning have come under scrutiny, but he remains focused and motivated heading into the new season, aiming to build on the chemistry established with LeBron during their first season together.