With headlines focused on LeBron James potentially leaving the Los Angeles Lakers, a quieter but potentially more impactful story is unfolding in the NBA.
ESPN NBA Insider Brian Windhorst recently highlighted Luka Dončić’s contract situation, suggesting it could reshape not only the Lakers’ future, but also the league’s landscape.
As the Lakers prepare for a new era, Dončić’s upcoming decision on his own contract will be a key factor in how the franchise – and perhaps the entire NBA – moves forward in the years ahead.
‘Most Important Thing in the Whole NBA’: NBA Landscape Might Change with Decision
Windhorst recently pointed out that Dončić’s contract status, though not making as many headlines as other stories, could have a major impact on the Lakers and the league as a whole. With the former Mavericks star expected to make a decision soon, the clock is ticking for both Dončić and the Lakers.
Windy: “I almost would argue the most important thing in the whole NBA this summer is Luka Doncic whether he extends or not because that frames so much of what the Lakers are going to do, and frankly the whole league would do” pic.twitter.com/irY6lX7mPo
— Oh No He Didn’t (@ohnohedidnt24) July 2, 2025
Windhorst explained, “I almost would argue the most important thing in the whole NBA this summer is Luka Dončić, whether he extends or not, because that frames so much of what the Lakers are going to do, and frankly, the whole league would do.”
Starting Aug. 2, Dončić will be eligible to sign an extension with the Lakers. He could secure a deal starting at 30 percent of the salary cap, with 8 percent annual raises, potentially earning upwards of $229 million through the 2029-30 season.
That would make him one of the highest-paid players in the league. Even so, there is no guarantee he will accept the offer, especially with the Lakers’ locker room facing uncertainty and the possibility of losing a star player in free agency.
Meanwhile, Oklahoma City Thunder guard and NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander recently agreed to a four-year, $285 million contract extension, making him the highest-paid player in the league after leading the Thunder to a championship last season.
“I am calling it now. Revenge season is coming for Luka Doncic next year with the Lakers.”@jasonrmcintyre thinks people need to calm down with the Luka disrespect. pic.twitter.com/c19DPASRy1
— Herd w/Colin Cowherd (@TheHerd) July 2, 2025
As the Lakers prepare for life without James, who may leave via free agency or retirement, Dončićs extension decision looms large. His choice could shape the franchise’s direction for years to come.
NBA Insider Shams Charania has reported that the Lakers appear to recognize Dončić as the future face of their franchise. The team is reportedly prioritizing him over James, which could influence the Lakers legend’s decision about his own future.
Charania explained, “The Lakers are moving younger. They’re looking to the future and prioritizing Luka Dončić, really as they should. LeBron James understands where the Lakers are. I don’t think he’s asking them to change direction or make him the face of the franchise again.”
Despite the Lakers’ focus on Dončić, there is no guarantee he will stay with the team beyond the 2026 season.
If he does not sign an extension, he could play out next season and then enter free agency in 2026. With this in mind, Dončić’s upcoming decision could make him one of the top earners in the NBA and the future star of the Lakers, or it could make him one of the top available players in free agency, changing the landscape of the league.
