LeBron James congratulates Luka Dončić after contract extension with the Lakers
Amidst the excitement surrounding Luka Dončić’s recent contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers, amounting to $165 million over three years, the player’s phone lit up with a special call. LeBron James, the emblematic figure of the franchise for the last seven seasons, was the first to congratulate Dončić. According to sources, James communicated with Dončić via video call to express his congratulations. This gesture occurred immediately after the contract was signed and before Dončić participated in a press conference at the Lakers’ training facility on Saturday. Although James was not present at the press conference or on the team’s trip to Las Vegas to attend the Backstreet Boys concert, the phone call reinforced the support James has shown to Dončić since the Lakers surprised the basketball world by acquiring the 26-year-old superstar in February.The connection between James and Dončić has strengthened since they both shared the court during the regular season, where the Lakers achieved a 16-7 record in the games they played together. Faced with Dončić’s imminent decision on his contract after the Lakers’ first-round defeat against the Minnesota Timberwolves, James expressed his wish for the player to remain on the team, although he respected his personal decision.Luka has been my favorite NBA player for a while.
LeBron James
While James’ feelings towards Dončić have been consistent, with a deep mutual respect between both players, James’ perspectives on the future of the Lakers are not so clear. James opted into the final year of his contract for $52.6 million in June, which will allow him to play his 23rd season in the league with the Lakers in the 2025-26 season. However, the statement from his agent, Rich Paul, CEO of Klutch Sports, opened the door to speculation about the future of the four-time champion.I hope, obviously, [that he stays long-term]. Lakers fans love him here. Los Angeles has embraced him. We want him as a teammate, as a brother. But ultimately, he has to make a decision for himself. I’m not going to be around here much longer.
LeBron James
When asked about Paul’s statement and James’ future, Rob Pelinka, president of basketball operations and general manager of the Lakers, stated that the team and James’ environment maintain a positive relationship.LeBron wants to compete for a championship. He knows the Lakers are building for the future. He understands that, but he values a realistic opportunity to win it all. We are very grateful for the partnership we have had for eight years with Jeanie [Buss] and Rob [Pelinka] and consider the Lakers a fundamental part of his career.
Rich Paul
As for what the future holds for James beyond next season, Pelinka indicated that the team will respect the 40-year-old player’s decision.All the interactions we’ve had with LeBron and his team, Rich in particular, have been positive and supportive. The dialogue with [Paul] has been open and constant.
Rob Pelinka
Marc Stein, NBA reporter, was the first to report on James’ efforts to contact Dončić and congratulate him.I think the most important thing we have to do is respect his decision and that of his family regarding how long he is going to play. We want to respect his ability to set his own schedule. I think that’s really important. But if he had the opportunity to retire as a Laker, that would be great.
Rob Pelinka
