Lakers Update: The Luka Era Is Officially Here!

ESPN

Earlier today, 5-time NBA All-Star Luka Dončić officially solidified his place with the Los Angeles Lakers when he signed a 3-year contract extension worth $165 million. Dončić can become a free agent in 2028...which will mark his 10th year in the league and allow him to seek a 5-year deal worth $418 million with the Lakers. This financial windfall is dependent on Dončić declining a player option for the 2028-29 season, though.

So with Luka's future with the Lakers now secured, it remains to be seen what other moves the Lakers will make before NBA training camp starts on October 1st. And before I forget— Welcome to the Lake Show, Jake LaRavia and Marcus Smart! (I already blogged about Deandre Ayton's arrival to L.A. a month ago.)

The Lakers still have ways to go before they can match up with the defending champs, the Oklahoma City Thunder, but Luka securing his spot as the successor to LeBron James once the 22-year veteran retires (or leaves the Lakers for another team before the 2026-27 season) is a start! Happy Saturday.

Behind-the-scenes of Luka signing his extension. pic.twitter.com/qMNwHOLsWj

— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) August 2, 2025