The LA Lakers are open to trading anyone this offseason—except for Luka Doncic, who is considered their only untouchable player.
The Los Angeles Lakers landed a new franchise cornerstone this past season when they made a blockbuster trade with the Dallas Mavericks, acquiring Luka Doncic in exchange for Anthony Davis.
Luka Doncic
Luka Doncic
Luka Doncic
MIN: 35.94
PTS: 28.35 (54.65%)
REB: 8.09
As: 7.49
ST: 1.71
BL: 0.44
TO: 3.62
GM: 55
The Slovenian superstar is now the centerpiece of the LA Lakers' future, a point recently confirmed by Jovan Buha of The Athletic.
During a Q&A session, Buha was inquired, "If the right deal is there, no one is untouchable other than Doncic?"
"Yes, that's correct, and I think that's how it should be," Buha replied.
It's a stance similar to the one the Boston Celtics are taking this summer, where reportedly only Jayson Tatum is considered off-limits in trade discussions.
Some might argue that LeBron James should also be untouchable, but given his age (40), the situation is more fluid, despite the fact that his contract contains a no-trade clause.
Credit IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect - Scanpix
James is expected to opt into his $54 million player option and return to the Lakers for the 2025–26 season, although his final decision is still pending ahead of the June 29 deadline.
Meanwhile, Doncic is expected to sign a contract extension with the Lakers 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.
Like what we are doing? Support us by becoming BN+ member.