Particle.news
Download on the App Store
25 ARTICLES
·
56m ago

Lakers Signal Aggressive Team-Building Around Luka Dončić After EuroBasket Showcase

Pelinka points to Dončić’s summer form as justification to chase roster upgrades that could extend past 2026.

Image
Image
Vice President of Basketball Operations and General Manager Rob Pelinka of the Los Angeles Lakers looks on prior to the game against the Chicago Bulls on March 27, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

Overview

  • Dončić is signed to a three-year, $165 million extension through 2027-28 with a 2028-29 player option, positioning him for a projected 2028 supermax if he opts out.
  • At EuroBasket 2025 he averaged 34.7 points, 8.6 rebounds and 7.1 assists, and he praised the Lakers’ “amazing” support, which included executives traveling to Poland and a pregame group chat with team and camp members.
  • ESPN reports the Lakers are open to acquiring players on contracts beyond 2026, leveraging expiring deals such as Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent and Maxi Kleber plus a tradable 2031 or 2032 first-round pick.
  • Team sources noted his improved conditioning and mobility, with coaches highlighting increased defensive engagement, including a tournament-best 2.7 steals per game for Slovenia.
  • In a Wall Street Journal interview, Dončić said closure on his Mavericks trade may never come and stated he would like to finish his career with Real Madrid.