Everything points to Luka Doncic being the linchpin of the new Dallas Mavericks project in the coming seasons, although his long-term continuity is still far from a certainty. According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, there is some concern within the franchise about the Slovenian’s contractual future.
Doncic will be eligible to sign a four-year, $229 million extension beginning Aug. 2. However, as Windhorst explained, there is no guarantee he will accept that proposal. In fact, John Hollinger (The Athletic) noted earlier this month that he is more likely to opt for a shorter deal, which would allow him to aspire to 35% of the salary cap when he reaches veteran status with 10 years in the league in the summer of 2028.
Doncic’s trade from the Mavericks prevents him from receiving the five-year, $345.3 million maximum extension he would have received had he remained in Dallas. Instead, one of the alternatives being considered is a three-year deal worth approximately $165 million, including a player option for the 2028-29 campaign. This path would allow him to become a free agent sooner and, if he decides not to exercise that option, sign a new contract under the 35% salary cap threshold. If the projection of a 10% annual increase in that cap is maintained, he could secure a five-year deal worth close to $418 million (about $83.6 million per season).
Free agent in the summer of 2026
There is also the possibility that Doncic will not sign any extension for now, play next season and choose to decline his player option for the 2026-27 campaign, becoming an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2026.
All of the Lakers’ recent moves in the market suggest that they are building around the Slovenian. For now, there is no intention to trade him or involve him in future operations. However, his stay with the franchise is not guaranteed forever, and the Angelenos must be prepared for any scenario.
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