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[Saba Sports News] Luka Doncic’s first season with the Los Angeles Lakers ended far earlier than he or the team had hoped, with a first-round playoff exit at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves.
It was a dramatic shift from just a year ago, when Doncic reached the NBA Finals with the Dallas Mavericks.
In this new chapter with the Lakers, Doncic quickly became a defensive target for the Timberwolves, who exposed him multiple times throughout the series. Their 103-96 Game 5 loss sealed the Lakers’ early trip to the offseason — and Cancun.
Doncic’s last few months have been a whirlwind: from believing he would spend his entire career with the Mavericks to adjusting to the spotlight and pressure of playing in Los Angeles. While the Lakers appear to have won the trade in the short term, there’s a looming contract decision ahead.
Per ESPN’s Bobby Marks, Doncic has a player option for the 2026-27 season and could become a free agent after the 2025-26 campaign.
He has a few paths forward: opt out next summer and test free agency, sign a four-year, \$226 million extension as early as August 2, or agree to a shorter two-plus-one deal that would set him up for a potential five-year, \$418 million max deal in 2028.
Asked after the Game 5 loss whether he’s thought about an extension, Doncic said, “I didn’t think it yet. I’ve been focused on basketball. Obviously, this is the time now to think about everything.”
Though his future remains uncertain, Doncic made it clear that his early months in Los Angeles have been overwhelmingly positive.
“It’s been great, honestly. The way the fans accepted me, it’s been amazing. I’m really glad that I’m here. Had a great couple months. Obviously trying to learn everything about the team and the city, trying to process everything,” he said.
For now, the Lakers must prioritize securing Doncic’s long-term commitment — because losing him would be a disaster. Fortunately, there’s no sign that he’s eager to leave.