ESPN’s Brian Windhorst emphasized on Thursday that the Los Angeles Lakers’ offseason priorities revolve around Luka Doncic, not LeBron James.
Appearing on Get Up, Windhorst explained that while James remains under contract for $52.6 million, the Lakers’ top concern is securing Doncic to a contract extension once he becomes eligible on August 2.
“There is no update. LeBron is continuing to watch, but… the number one most important thing for the Lakers this offseason is getting Luka Doncic into a contract extension,” Windhorst said.
The insider warned that fans should not expect Doncic to sign immediately since he will be competing with the Slovenian national team in EuroBasket 2025 until mid-September.
Doncic, acquired in February in a blockbuster trade that sent Anthony Davis to Dallas, has quickly become central to the Lakers’ strategy moving forward.
Ramona Shelburne previously reported that the 26-year-old guard is involved in all major offseason discussions.
After their early playoff exit against Minnesota, the Lakers have already added Jake LaRavia and Deandre Ayton.
LeBron’s cryptic posts and comments have sparked speculation about his future, but multiple insiders—including Howard Beck on The Zach Lowe Show—believe his actions are meant to pressure the Lakers to improve the roster rather than signal a trade request.
James exercised his player option for the 2025–26 season, ensuring he remains in Los Angeles, though the team reportedly views him as a short-term piece while transitioning to the post-LeBron era.
Doncic averaged 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists in the regular season for the Lakers and elevated his play in the postseason despite a back injury.
