The Lakers and the Doncic Era: A Long-Term Plan
The arrival of Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers marks a new chapter for the franchise. After signing his three-year contract extension for $165 million, the organization focuses on building a sustainable project that competes for the championship, emulating the 17 titles in the team’s history.
Doncic, at 26 years old, has no intention of being patient. In a conversation with Lakers’ president of basketball operations, Rob Pelinka, and coach JJ Redick, the player expressed his desire to “return to the Finals” and the urgency to “do whatever it takes now.”
I don’t want to wait. I had a taste of the Finals. I’m going back there. So, let’s do what we can now.
Luka Doncic
In a highly competitive NBA context, the key question is whether the Doncic era, backed by new ownership and the resources of billionaire Mark Walter, will be able to break the trend and take the Lakers to the top.
Building the Ideal Team: How to Surround Luka?
According to the analysis, two types of players fit perfectly alongside Doncic. The first are explosive and efficient pivots in the zone, capable of finishing plays near the basket. The second is an elite shooter who can capitalize on Doncic’s passes from the perimeter.
The xRAPM statistic reveals that the Doncic-Dereck Lively II combination had a notable impact when they played together on the Dallas Mavericks. In addition, Doncic stands out for his assists for dunks, ranking second in the league since his arrival.
Although finding quality shooters might be easier, the Lakers will need to focus on finding versatile players who complement Doncic’s game. Names like Rui Hachimura, Jake LaRavia, and Dalton Knecht could be key in this regard.
The acquisition of Deandre Ayton represents a step in the right direction, although it is not yet the perfect fit. The Lakers will need to define their long-term strategy for the center position, whether by seeking a high-caliber player or enhancing the skills of existing players.
Doncic’s ability to play with other ball handlers, such as Kyrie Irving, who reached the final with Doncic, and Jalen Brunson, who reached the conference finals with Dallas, demonstrates his versatility and adaptability.
The Future of Austin Reaves: How Much Will It Cost?
One of the most important questions for the Lakers is the future of Austin Reaves. The 27-year-old guard has shown great potential, going from undrafted to averaging 20.2 points and 5.8 assists last season.
Reaves will become a free agent next summer, and the question is how much it will cost to retain him. Projections suggest a contract of $30 million or more.
Reaves’ performance in the current season’s playoffs will be crucial in defining his role in the Lakers’ future. An outstanding performance could establish him as Doncic’s long-term teammate.
Building a competitive team around Doncic requires a combination of a solid center and, above all, high-quality forwards that complement the Slovenian’s game.
Long-Term Strategies and Perspectives
The team is at a crucial moment in completing its roster. Although the team has made significant moves, including the signing of Ayton, LaRavia, Marcus Smart and Jaxson Hayes, and the extension of Doncic, the management is looking to continuously improve the team.
The Lakers’ financial flexibility in the 2025-26 season will depend on several factors, including the contracts of Hachimura, Kleber, Vincent, and James. In the best-case scenario, they could have up to $45 million in cap space.
The summer of 2027 could be key, with the possibility of attracting players of the stature of Giannis Antetokounmpo, Stephen Curry, Nikola Jokic and others. The combination of Doncic, the appeal of Los Angeles, the new ownership, and the salary cap space could be decisive factors.
The recent history of the Lakers, with the arrival of LeBron James in 2018 and the subsequent acquisition of Anthony Davis, demonstrates the importance of financial flexibility and the ability to attract talent. However, the league’s new collective bargaining agreement could complicate the Lakers’ strategy, as players tend to extend their contracts with their current teams.
LeBron James: What is his Future?
LeBron James’ situation is also relevant. While the player has chosen to exercise his contract option for this season, his future remains uncertain. The possibility of him retiring as a Laker is a scenario desired by the franchise.
If James decided to seek a team change, finding a suitable destination could be a challenge. The financial restrictions of other teams and James’s no-trade clause would limit the options.
In the summer of 2025, James will become a free agent, and several teams could be interested in signing him. James’ decision, will he prioritize a fifth championship or a large economic contract?
