After concluding the 2024-25 season in spectacular fashion, securing Luka Doncic‘s future became the Los Angeles Lakers‘ top priority. Rumors about his potential departure sparked widespread speculation across the league. Nevertheless, in a surprising move that caught fans off guard, the team officially announced his contract extension. The Slovenian star’s $165 million deal immediately drew comparisons to LeBron James‘ contract.
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, Luka Doncic has signed a lucrative three-year contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, worth a total of $165 million. This deal includes a player option in Doncic’s third year, giving him the flexibility to explore his future opportunities. In comparison, LeBron James recently signed an extension that will pay him $52,627,153, as reported by Spotrac.
Though LeBron’s contract is shorter, his earnings for the 2025-26 NBA season will nearly match those of Doncic. Many fans were surprised by Luka’s decision, as they expected the Slovenian star to secure a more substantial deal. However, the key factor lies in the potential growth of Doncic’s contract over time, unlike James’, which is likely to be his last.
Luka Doncic contract extension sends clear message about his future with LeBron James
Since Luka Doncic joined the Lakers, fans have observed a significant shift in the franchise leadership towards the young star. Following this, NBA insiders Ramona Shelburne and Brian Windhorst reported that LeBron James has felt disrespected by the franchise approach to changing its leadership dynamics. However, Doncic’s recent contract extension offers a different perspective on his intentions regarding the franchise legend.
LeBron James #23 and Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers shake hands against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second quarter at Crypto.com Arena on April 04, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.
With his future in his control, Doncic could have negotiated a much larger deal that might have burdened the Lakers’ salary cap. Instead, he chose to maintain a conservative approach to his contract terms. According to Dallas Hoops, the Slovenian star is making every effort to ensure that LeBron retires as a Laker, driven by his deep respect for the basketball legend and a desire not to overshadow him.
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Luka Doncic breaks silence after officially signing extension with the Los Angeles Lakers
Luka Doncic’s arrival at the Lakers stirred quite a bit of controversy, but he has quickly silenced the doubters by proving his ability to lead the team’s offense. As he enters the final year of his contract, the Slovenian star has committed to the franchise by signing a three-year extension. Following the announcement, he reached out directly to fans with a heartfelt message.
“I just signed my extension with the Lakers. 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,” Luka Doncic posted, via X.
