Luka Doncic is reportedly excited about the Los Angeles Lakers' ownership change, viewing it as a positive step for the team's future.
Billionaire Mark Walter will be the fourth team owner Luka Doncic has lived through in just 18 months—following Mark Cuban and Patrick Dumont in Dallas, Jeanie Buss, and now Walter in Los Angeles.
3-pointers this season
Los Angeles Lakers
NBA
But like LeBron James, Doncic seems optimistic about the latest ownership change at the Los Angeles Lakers, according to ESPN's Dave McMenamin, who shared an update on SportsCenter.
"Speaking to people close to both Luka and LeBron James, there's excitement about this move for what it means for this team," McMenamin reported. "Obviously, having someone like Mark Walter doesn't mean the salary cap goes out the window."
Still, the expectation is that the Lakers will be more aggressive spenders moving forward—a promising sign for their stars, who are eager to compete for championships after a disappointing first-round exit in the 2025 NBA Playoffs.
Credit Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Doncic is heading into his first full season with the LA Lakers and will be eligible for a contract extension in August.
The Slovenian star is expected to sign a contract extension with the Purple & Gold this offseason.
The 26-year-old is set to earn $46 million next season and holds a player option worth nearly $49 million for the following year. Reports suggest he could sign a four-year, $229 million extension to stay in Los Angeles long-term.
Luka was traded in early February in a quiet, under-the-radar deal between Lakers GM Rob Pelinka and Mavericks GM Nico Harrison.
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