The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly planning for life after LeBron James and have identified their next superstar target: Luka Doncic.
The Slovenian superstar, alongside Kyrie Irving, led the Mavericks to the NBA Finals last season, losing 4-1 to a star-studded Celtics team.
As it stands, Doncic has a player option for the 2026-27 season, but he is eligible for a supermax extension next offseason. That contract could be worth more than $340 million ($500 million AU).
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The Mavericks will be desperate to retain him, but according to The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor, the LA powerhouse has their eyes on him.
“I reported on this podcast and on The Ringer how they have their eyes on Luka [Dončić] in the future,” O’Connor said on The Mismatch Podcast.
“We’ll see if it works. Dallas just made the Finals, Dallas looks better than ever with their supporting cast. It might not work.
“But the Lakers, by not trading their future picks, are clearly still thinking long-term at this point. They’re not going to go all-in like you might expect many teams to do with James.”
James remains the face of the NBA but is in the final stages of an incredible career.
Additionally, his goal of playing with his son Bronny James could be achieved next season after the Lakers drafted him in the second round.
He signed a two-year, $99 million ($145 million) contract this off-season, which includes a player option for his second campaign.
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If he achieves his dream of playing in the NBA alongside his son, it’s realistic to believe that James could retire after the 2024-25 season.
Doncic, meanwhile, is enjoying his time in Dallas and now has a solid supporting cast around him.
Irving was impressive, while the addition of Derrick Lively was a huge bonus for the Mavericks last season.
Add in the arrival of Klay Thompson this offseason and Dallas will only be stronger and will be a leading contender for the 24/25 title.
According to NBC SportsDoncic is more than likely to extend his stay with the Mavericks, but the Lakers are reportedly waiting patiently to make a move.
