Overview

• Dončić signed a three-year, $165 million maximum extension on the first day it was available, cementing him as the Lakers’ cornerstone through 2028.
• He completed a three-city U.S. promotional tour in New York City, Chicago and Los Angeles, where he pledged $5 million in grants and mentorship for 77 young athletes.
• Former Lakers star Pau Gasol publicly praised Dončić’s commitment to the franchise and his foundation’s work following the extension.
• Los Angeles is operating under a hard cap after midlevel exception signings and is targeting rim-running centers and knockdown shooters to complement Dončić’s pick-and-roll game.
• LeBron James has opted in to a $52.6 million salary with a no-trade clause, and Austin Reaves is expected to command a $30 million-plus contract in next summer’s free agency.