The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly preparing for the post-LeBron James era and have identified Luka Doncic as their next superstar target.
Doncic, the Slovenian sensation, along with Kyrie Irving, led the Mavericks to the NBA Finals last season, where they were defeated 4-1 by a star-studded Celtics team.
Doncic has a player option for the 2026-27 season, but he’s eligible for a supermax extension as early as next off-season, potentially worth over $340 million ($500m AUD). The Mavericks will be eager to keep him, but according to Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer, the Lakers have set their sights on him.
“I’ve mentioned on this podcast and on The Ringer that they’re eyeing Luka [Dončić] for the future,” O’Connor said on The Mismatch podcast.
“We’ll see if that pans out. Dallas just reached the Finals and looks stronger than ever with their supporting cast. It might not work out.
“But the Lakers, by holding onto their future picks, are clearly thinking long-term. They’re not going all-in as you might expect teams to do with James.” James is still the face of the NBA but is in the final stage of his extraordinary career.
Additionally, his goal of playing alongside his son Bronny James could be realized next season after the Lakers drafted Bronny in the second round.
James signed a $99 million ($145m AUD) two-year deal this off-season, which includes a player option for the second year. If he achieves his dream of playing with his son, it’s plausible that James might retire after the 2024-25 season.
Meanwhile, Doncic is thriving in Dallas, now surrounded by a strong supporting cast.
Irving has been outstanding, and the addition of Derrick Lively was a major boost for the Mavericks last season.
With Klay Thompson joining this off-season, Dallas is only getting stronger and is a top contender for the 24/25 title.
According to NBC Sports, Doncic is expected to extend his stay with the Mavericks, but the Lakers are reportedly waiting for the right moment to make their move.