Lakers Extend Dončić’s Contract for $165 Million

Slovenian star Luka Dončić has signed a three-year contract extension with the Los Angeles Lakers, a team competing in the NBA, in a deal worth $165 million, according to his agent Bill Duffy over the weekend.

Dončić made a surprising midseason move last year from the Dallas Mavericks to the Lakers in a blockbuster trade that saw Lakers star Anthony Davis head in the opposite direction.

Last season, Dončić averaged 28.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game over 50 appearances split between the Mavericks and the Lakers.

He also played a key role in bringing Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart to the Lakers this summer. Dončić is set to lead his national team, Slovenia, in the upcoming EuroBasket tournament scheduled from August 27 to September 14.

On Saturday, Dončić wrote on his social media accounts: “Just extended my contract with the Lakers. I’m excited to bring a championship to LA and make Lakers Nation proud.” He added, “I’m grateful to the Lakers organization, my teammates, and the fans who welcomed me and my family from day one.”

Lakers GM Rob Pelinka commented: “It’s a great day for our franchise. Luka Dončić’s future is with the Los Angeles Lakers. Without a doubt, Luka will lead our team to championships — that’s always the goal.”

Reports indicated that Dončić’s physical condition was one of the reasons the Mavericks decided to move on from him despite his immense talent. However, recent photos and videos showed him noticeably slimmer — the result of an intense training program that appears to have paid off.

Dončić recently said, “Visually, I’d say my body looks better,” adding, “Every summer, I do my best to work on different things. Obviously, I’m very competitive. This summer was a bit different. The doubts (about my fitness and physical condition) motivated me to be better.”

Furthermore, reports have emerged that Dončić is trying to convince Serbian star Nikola Jokić to join him in Los Angeles — a move that, if it happens, would create a formidable trio with LeBron James already on the roster. Combined with the Lakers’ summer additions, it could position the team as serious title contenders after last season’s championship went to the Oklahoma City Thunder.

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