The Lakers will soon have to sign Luka Doncic to some sort of contract extension, since he can opt out of his current contract in the summer of 2026.

If Dončić opts for immediate long-term security, he could sign a four-year, $219.4 million extension that goes into effect in the 2026-27. This would be a huge help for the Lakers in managing the cap since it would keep his average annual salary at $54.9 million.

"And when it came to the Mavericks-Lakers trade talks that led to the deal, league and team sources say Doncic’s uncertain long-term status was the primary reason the Lakers were able to avoid giving up their 2031 first-round pick in the deal."