Luka Doncic in the spotlight: The million-dollar nightmare that’s shaking the Lakers

Luka Doncic has become the heart and hope of the Dallas Mavericks for the coming seasons. However, the Slovenian star’s contract future is shrouded in uncertainty, putting both the franchise and the entire NBA on alert.

The possibility that Doncic may choose not to sign a max extension and instead opt for a shorter deal, or even test free agency, is fueling speculation and strategic maneuvers across the league.

Contract options: Max deal or long-term flexibility?

Starting August 2, Luka Doncic will be eligible to sign a four-year, $229 million extension, an eye, popping number in today’s basketball landscape. But the story doesn’t end there.

Experts like John Hollinger suggest that Luka might prefer a short-term deal to keep his future wide open.

This move would allow him to qualify for an even larger contract in 2028 when he reaches 10 years of service in the league and becomes eligible for up to 35% of the salary cap.

Luka Doncic uncertain future: Will he stay in Dallas or chase free agency?

Because the Mavericks traded for him, Luka Doncic lost eligibility for the five-year, $345.3 million supermax extension he could have signed with his original team.

Instead, a realistic option would be a three-year deal worth around $165 million, with a player option for the 2028–29 season.

This strategy would give him the flexibility to hit free agency earlier and potentially land a record-breaking deal in the future, possibly worth over $400 million.

Free agency looms in 2026

Another scenario worrying the Mavericks is that Doncic could skip the extension altogether and play out the next season under his current contract.

If he then declines his player option for 2026–27, he would become an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2026, opening the door to a league-shaking team switch.

Lakers watching closely

Meanwhile, franchises like the Los Angeles Lakers are closely monitoring Doncic’s every move. They are actively building around the Slovenian star, though they also know nothing is guaranteed.

Luka Doncic potential departure would open a massive opportunity for several teams. And the pressure to either keep him or lose him over hundreds of millions is a nightmare scenario for any front office.