Luka Doncic has officially committed his future to the Los Angeles Lakers, signing a momentous extension that not only solidifies his place with the franchise but also positions him on the cusp of NBA history with a potential half-billion-dollar contract.
Announced on Saturday, the superstar penned a three-year, $165 million extension, a deal meticulously structured with a player option in 2028. This strategic signing now makes Doncic eligible for a projected five-year, $417 million deal in 2028, bypassing free agency next summer.
While the current figures are estimates, the NBA’s continually increasing salary cap could see this unprecedented sum climb even higher, potentially breaching the half-billion mark. Such monumental contracts have rarely been seen in sports, though similar long-term deals, albeit spanning over a decade, exist in other major leagues.
This significant agreement grants the 17-time NBA champions substantial financial maneuverability heading into the 2026 free agency period. The Lakers aim to construct a formidable playoff contender around their star point guard, with projections indicating they could have an estimated $54 million available in cap space, a figure that might even surge to $84 million depending on Austin Reaves’ cap hold.
Doncic himself took to social media to announce the extension, conveying his excitement and calling the move “just the beginning.” He expressed gratitude to the Lakers organization, his teammates, and the fans, reiterating his commitment to bringing championships to Los Angeles and making Laker Nation proud.
Beyond the contract, Doncic also made a profound commitment to philanthropy, pledging $5 million to support 77 young athletes globally in pursuing their dreams. This generous act underscores his belief in giving back to the sport that has given him everything, nurturing the next generation of talent.
This isn’t an isolated act of generosity for the superstar, who previously donated $500,000 to wildfire relief efforts in Los Angeles and personally contributed $5,000 to restore a vandalized mural honoring late Lakers icon, Kobe Bryant, further cementing his dedication to the community.
Should Doncic choose to remain in Los Angeles beyond 2028, he would be eligible for an extension of unprecedented magnitude, one poised to eclipse even other basketball legends’ historic contracts by a substantial margin, reflecting his escalating value.
Demonstrating his commitment on the court, Doncic has diligently focused on physical conditioning since his trade to Los Angeles, a move that sent shockwaves across the NBA. Recent offseason workout videos show him performing impressive feats, including squatting 720 pounds, aligning with Head Coach JJ Redick’s emphasis on optimal player shape for the upcoming 2025-26 season.
