NBA insider breaks down best path for Doncic megadeal

NBA insider reveals the most lucrative option for Luka Doncic this offseason https://t.co/pGFFg8nf3x— LakerTom (@LakerTom) March 5, 2025

Aug. 2 is the big day for Doncic and the Lakers. When it comes, Marks explained that Luka will be eligible to sign up to a four-year, $229 million extension with his new team. However, the ESPN insider explained there is another approach for Doncic that would ensure a much larger deal down the line for the five-time All-NBA member.

Marks wrote, “To recoup the money lost when he was traded, Doncic would be better served financially to sign a three-year, $165 million extension — with a player option in 2027-28. Doncic would then be eligible to sign a five-year, $418 million contract in the 2028 offseason.”

The lack of lucrative deal available this offseason was the main reason that analysts like Brian Windhorst suggested that Luka staying with the Lakers was far from a long-term guarantee. However, his own co-worker, Shams Charania recently dismissed that notion. ESPN’s top insider appeared on The Pat McAfee Show to note his sources are feeling confident about the future of Doncic in Los Angeles.

Charania explained that the former Mavericks superstar never wanted to leave Dallas in the first place. This was especially true after Doncic bought a pricy new home in the area. The NBA insider expects Luka to have similar feelings about his new environment.

“You think of a player coming from abroad, they are very committed,” Charania told viewers of the show. “They are loyal. That’s how he viewed himself with the Mavericks. One team, one city, forever. I think that’s going to carry over to the Lakers. I think he’s loving his time in L.A.”

All indications are pointing towards Doncic having found a new, permanent home in Los Angeles. One that should be able to pay him considerably when the time comes.