Six months ago to the day, Dončić's world was turned upside down when a shocking blockbuster trade sent him from the Dallas Mavericks to the Lakers. Dončić played just 33 games with Los Angeles between the regular season and playoffs, but he saw enough to buy into general manager Rob Pelinka's long-term vision.

The 5-time All-Star and 5-time All-NBA First Team guard re-signs with L.A. to avoid free agency next offseason.

Luka Dončić has agreed to a three-year, $165 million maximum contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers, bypassing a chance at free agency next summer to build a long-term future with his new team. The deal keeps Dončić with Los Angeles through 2028. The Slovenian superstar had a player option for the 2026-27 season under his previous contract.