After spending the past several months immersed in the grind of the regular season and playoffs, Lakers guard Luka Doncic is finally ready to shift his attention to what comes next – his future in Los Angeles.
Speaking to reporters following the Lakers’ postseason run, Doncic acknowledged that contract discussions and long-term planning had taken a back seat to basketball during the season.
But with the offseason now upon him, the 26-year-old star says it’s time to start thinking more seriously about his next steps.
“I didn’t think about it yet,” the player admitted candidly. “I’ve been focused on basketball. So obviously this is the time now to think about everything.”
The timing aligns with the NBA’s contract rules: beginning in August, the Lakers will be eligible to offer Doncic a four-year extension.
However, due to the fact that he was traded to Los Angeles and not drafted or extended by his original team under specific criteria, Doncic is no longer eligible for the lucrative supermax contract that would have allowed him to earn 35% of the league’s salary cap.
While that technicality could complicate negotiations, Doncic has publicly expressed no dissatisfaction with his situation in L.A. – in fact, quite the opposite.
He’s quickly found a sense of connection and comfort within the team, particularly under head coach JJ Redick, who completed his first season at the helm.
“I think he’s a hell of a coach,” the guard said when asked about Redick’s performance. “I’m really glad I got coached by him these couple of months. It feels sometimes like I’m back in Europe a little bit. So I love it. We have a great bond. It’s been nothing but amazing with him as a coach.”
Doncic’s comparison to his European basketball roots speaks volumes.
Known for his time with Real Madrid and the Slovenian national team, Doncic developed in a system that emphasized trust, tactical awareness, and player-coach rapport – qualities he now sees in Redick’s approach.
Redick, a former player-turned-coach, was a surprising hire last offseason but has seemingly earned the respect of one of the league’s most demanding stars.
Doncic’s endorsement may prove crucial as the Lakers look to maintain continuity and stability while building a contender around their current core.
With LeBron James still anchoring the veteran leadership and Luka entering his prime, the Lakers’ immediate future is filled with intrigue.
As extension talks loom, the franchise will be hoping that Doncic’s comfort with the coaching staff – and his public praise for Redick – signal a willingness to commit long-term.
Now, as the dust of the season settles, all eyes turn to what Doncic decides – and whether the Lakers can solidify their star’s place in Los Angeles for years to come.
Luka Doncic Hasn't Thought About Extension With Lakers Yet https://t.co/YoI1aLaYou
— RealGM (@RealGM) May 1, 2025
