The offseason has finally brought clarity for the Los Angeles Lakers, as the pressing question surrounding Luka Dončić’s future has been settled. On the exact day he became eligible, Dončić agreed to a contract extension that will keep him in Los Angeles for at least the next three years.
There’s a clause in the agreement that gives him the chance to opt out and become an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2028. This new deal covers three years, with the third year structured as a player option, which many believed would be his most realistic route. Two main factors helped shape this decision.
The first, which has already been talked about by many, is linked to his opportunity to test free agency again after completing ten seasons in the NBA. Reaching that milestone will allow him to qualify for the highest salary tier, putting him in a position to regain some of the money he lost when the Mavericks sent him to the Lakers.
Why the Deal Structure Matters for Luka Dončić’s Long-Term Plans
The second reason behind his extension becomes even more interesting when looking at the deeper contract implications, as highlighted by NBA reporter Marc Stein. Dončić’s current deal makes it possible for him to push for a full no-trade clause in his next contract.
By choosing this path, staying for four full seasons in Los Angeles and then entering free agency, Dončić puts himself in a position where he can ask for a new five-year deal that could exceed $400 million.
That future contract would be larger than the five-year supermax offer, worth around $340 million, which he would have received from Dallas had he stayed.
There is also a strategic benefit to becoming a free agent rather than signing another extension. If Dončić chooses to go into unrestricted free agency and signs a fresh deal instead of an extension, NBA rules allow him to request a no-trade clause. This clause would give him full control of his destination and future moves.
Looking at how the Lakers handled things with LeBron James, it seems very likely they would offer Dončić similar treatment. LeBron got his no-trade clause after finishing four years with the team, and Dončić is expected to receive the same kind of loyalty from the front office.
Lakers Likely to Keep Luka Dončić Happy No Matter What
As a team known for taking care of its superstar players, the Lakers will likely do everything possible to keep Dončić satisfied when the next contract is being discussed.
Of course, there’s always a bit of uncertainty involved when a player gets the option to become a free agent. That situation could create some tension if Dončić decides to test the market instead of signing right away.
But the last half-year has made one thing very clear. Dončić seems locked into his journey with Los Angeles. His actions reflect a strong bond with the franchise, and that trust gives the team confidence that their star will be around well into the future.
