The franchise’s new face, acquired in a high-profile trade earlier this year, becomes eligible on August 2 to sign a four-year, $229 million maximum extension. However, according to league insiders, there is no guarantee Doncic will commit this summer, and the organization is feeling the pressure as the deadline draws near.

The situation, described as a “stress max” by ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, places both Doncic and the Lakers at a major crossroads. Organization sources acknowledge that if Doncic does not immediately sign, it could trigger a wave of maneuvering by rival teams preparing cap space to chase the superstar in free agency.

With Doncic holding a player option for the 2026-27 season, a refusal to extend now could see him hit the open market in just a year’s time.

Short-Term Deal or Long-Term Commitment?

The root of the Lakers’ concern is tied to the nature of Doncic's next contract. Because Doncic was traded to Los Angeles while on his second NBA deal, he is ineligible for the five-year supermax extension that would have been available had he remained in Dallas.

Most sources believe that, instead of a full four-year agreement, Doncic may prefer a shorter deal—potentially three years with a player option—that positions him to be eligible for a projected five-year, $406 million contract once he reaches 10 years of service in 2028.

For the Lakers, this means less certainty and more risk. An early signal of hesitation from Doncic would compound concerns, especially given that several NBA franchises are building flexibility and could compete for his signature if he ever becomes available.

While Lakers management remains hopeful, there’s a sense of urgency to secure Doncic’s long-term commitment to ensure roster stability and championship aspirations in the post-LeBron James era.

Market Forces and the Stakes for L.A.

There is additional complexity as Doncic is currently competing for Slovenia in EuroBasket, delaying the start of any in-depth contract talks until the end of summer. Sources close to the team emphasize that any delay in signing—even if routine—will intensify speculation and put pressure on the front office to build a contending roster immediately to convince Doncic of their long-term vision.

Despite public displays of loyalty and satisfaction from Doncic since arriving in Los Angeles, league insiders stress that this contract is a genuine decision point for the 26-year-old—a far cry from the technicalities of his Dallas rookie and rookie-max extensions.

As negotiations draw closer, the Lakers’ ability to reassure Doncic of their direction and commitment to contending at the highest level could ultimately determine whether he represents the team for years to come, or whether his arrival marks just a brief chapter in franchise history.