Source Close To Luka Doncic Reveals How He Really Feels About Playing For Lakers

A source close to Luka Doncic revealed to Dave McMenamin of ESPN how the All-Star really feels about playing for the Los Angeles Lakers. 

Doncic was traded by the Dallas Mavericks to the Lakers in February. The superstar was publicly and privately heartbroken by the trade, but it sounds like he feels wanted in Los Angeles. 

“For Luka,” a source close to Doncic told ESPN, “he’s kind of like, ‘I’m wanted here.'”

Doncic averaged 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds and 7.5 assists with the Lakers in the regular season. The future Hall of Famer then put up 30.2 points, 7.0 rebounds and 5.8 assists per game in the Minnesota Timberwolves series.

The Lakers lost to the Timberwolves in five games. 

Los Angeles can sign Doncic to a four-year, $229 million contract in August. Doncic will make $46 million next season. He has a player option worth $48.9 million for the 2026-27 season. 

“On Aug. 2, the Lakers can offer Doncic a four-year, $229 million extension,” McMenamin wrote. “Doncic could also opt to sign a three-year, $165 million extension with a player option in 2028, according to ESPN NBA front office insider Bobby Marks, which would then allow him to sign a max deal in 2028 that would give him 35% of the salary cap for five seasons. Sources close to Doncic say he will take his time with his decision, even though he told ESPN’s Malika Andrews before the playoffs that he wants to stay in Los Angeles.”

Doncic is a gifted offensive player. However, he’s one of the worst defenders in the NBA. The Timberwolves hunted him on defense and had their way with him. 

Doncic has to lose weight and get in better shape. Only then will the Lakers compete for a championship.

LeBron James can’t be in better shape than Doncic, who is only 26. James is 40. He’s the oldest active player in the NBA.