Luka Doncic was committed to Dallas before trade

Mar 4, 2025 8:51 PM

Luka Doncic had every intention of signing a five-year, $345 million supermax extension with the Dallas Mavericks and staying with the team long-term before he was unexpectedly traded to the Los Angeles Lakers.

NBA insider Shams Charania revealed on The Pat McAfee Show that Doncic was fully committed to Dallas and never considered leaving the franchise.

“I know in talking to people around Luka Doncic over the past 72 hours, I was at that Lakers-Clippers game on Sunday, he had no intention of ever leaving Dallas,” Charania said.

“He had just bought a new home in Dallas for a lofty, lofty price. He did not want to go anywhere.”

Charania also emphasized Doncic’s loyalty to the Mavericks, attributing it to his background as an international player.

“You think of a player coming from abroad. They are very committed. They are loyal. That’s how he viewed himself with the Mavericks. One team, one city, forever.”

Despite the unexpected trade, Doncic appears to be embracing his new opportunity in Los Angeles.

“I think that’s going to carry over to the Lakers. I think he’s loving his time in L.A.,” Charania added.

As the offseason approaches, Doncic will be eligible to sign a five-year, $229 million extension with the Lakers starting August 2nd.

Another option would be a three-year, $165 million extension with a player option for 2028-29, which would align with his 10 years of NBA service, allowing him to sign for the 35% max salary at that time.