By Sunday 
A player option, a strategic stall, and a LeBron-sized shift in priorities.
Lakers fans — don’t panic just yet, but maybe keep the champagne on ice.
The Luka Doncic honeymoon in Los Angeles might be shorter than expected. While the superstar guard is under contract through the 2026-27 season, the latest buzz suggests he’s not planning to tie the knot long-term just yet. According to former NBA exec John Hollinger, Luka may pass on the expected 4-year, $223 million extension in favor of a shorter-term deal — and the Lakers’ front office is officially on watch.
A Rare Contract Scenario
Doncic is in a unique spot. Since he was traded from Dallas before his second contract ended, he’s not eligible for the NBA’s coveted supermax extension. That’s a big deal for a player of his caliber — and for the Lakers trying to lock him in.
Instead, the smarter money move for Luka is to ride out a shorter deal, then re-sign in 2028 when he hits 10-year vet status and qualifies for that juicy 35% cap-boosted contract. And honestly, who can blame him?
“He could make the Lakers sweat out the season before extending his deal,” Hollinger noted.
“He can extend any time between August 2 and next June. He’s not in a hurry.”
Layered Uncertainty in L.A.
What makes this even spicier? LeBron James’ future with the Lakers is just as murky. Combine that with Doncic’s calculated hesitation, and you’ve got a classic L.A. drama brewing. It’s clear the franchise is pivoting to build around Luka — LeBron’s era is slowly dimming.
Need proof? Look at Deandre Ayton. He signed with L.A. over other suitors to join Doncic — who, in Ayton’s eyes, is “the best playmaker in the NBA.”
It’s Doncic’s show now — and he knows it.
Why Lakers Fans Shouldn’t Freak Out… Yet
The Lakers still have Doncic locked in (with a player option) through 2026. But this shorter extension talk means the clock just started ticking louder. Every roster move, every trade, every playoff push now doubles as a pitch to convince Luka to stay.
L.A. is still an attractive destination. The team’s betting that a winning culture, some smart offseason additions, and championship contention will do the trick.
But make no mistake — Doncic holds all the cards.