Overview

• Pelinka announced Redick’s contract extension ahead of training camp, with terms undisclosed after a 50-32 debut season that ended in a first-round loss.
• Luka Dončić is locked in on a three-year, $165 million extension following a notable conditioning overhaul and EuroBasket All-Star Five honors, and Redick expects him to be more vocal as a leader.
• LeBron James exercised his $52.6 million option for 2025-26; Redick said James is in a strong mental place, and Pelinka reiterated he hopes James ultimately retires as a Laker.
• Los Angeles added Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart and Jake LaRavia to address size, defense and depth, with Pelinka indicating the front office will likely evaluate about 20 games before major in-season moves.
• Analysts urged the Lakers to avoid a risky ‘two-timelines’ blueprint as the team highlights cap flexibility, and media commentary has speculated about Austin Reaves’ eventual price tag.