The NBA world was shaken when Luka Dončić was officially traded from the Dallas Mavericks to the Los Angeles Lakers in a blockbuster deal. While this move pairs Luka with LeBron James and Anthony Davis, potentially forming an elite championship-contending squad, it also comes at a steep financial cost for the Slovenian superstar. According to ESPN, Dončić is now ineligible for a $345 million supermax extension, a contract he could have secured had he remained with the Mavericks. Instead, the largest deal he can sign with the Lakers is a five-year, $229 million contract—a staggering $116 million loss.
How Luka Became Ineligible for the Supermax
The NBA’s Designated Veteran Player Extension, commonly known as the supermax contract, is designed to reward elite players who meet certain performance criteria while staying with their original team. Since Dončić was traded to the Lakers, he no longer qualifies for this lucrative extension. Had he stayed in Dallas, he would have been eligible for a five-year, $345 million deal, the largest in NBA history, surpassing Jayson Tatum’s projected $315 million contract with the Boston Celtics.
Unfortunately for Luka, the trade to Los Angeles wiped out that eligibility. The most he can now sign with the Lakers is $229 million over five years, which means he just lost out on $116 million in potential earnings.
Financial Blow or Smart Career Move?
While the financial loss is significant, joining the Lakers comes with other perks. The Lakers are one of the most globally recognized franchises, with a massive fanbase and deep playoff aspirations. Luka will be playing in Hollywood, increasing his brand visibility and endorsement opportunities.
Additionally, being on the same team as LeBron James and Anthony Davis could provide Luka with a legitimate shot at winning his first NBA championship. In Dallas, he often carried the team on his back without enough support. With the Lakers, he now has a superstar-caliber supporting cast, making his road to a title much more realistic.
The Impact on Luka’s Legacy
While Dončić’s bank account may have taken a hit, his legacy could be the ultimate winner. Championships define careers, and if Luka can win multiple rings with the Lakers, he could cement himself as one of the greatest players of all time. His ability to thrive in high-pressure situations has already drawn comparisons to legends like Kobe Bryant and Magic Johnson, and now he has the chance to add championship banners to the Lakers’ historic collection.
Moreover, his marketability will likely skyrocket. Playing in Los Angeles, where endorsements and media exposure are at their peak, will make Luka an even bigger global icon. Deals with Nike, Gatorade, and other top brands could help him recover some of the lost earnings from his contract.
What’s Next for Luka and the Lakers?
The Lakers have now assembled a superteam, and the pressure is on to deliver championships. While losing out on $116 million is a tough pill to swallow, Luka Dončić now has the chance to rewrite his career trajectory. If he leads the Lakers to multiple NBA titles, the financial setback will be a small price to pay for immortality in basketball history.
As Luka himself has said in previous interviews: “It’s all about winning.” Now, it’s time to see if he can turn this career-defining move into the ultimate success story.
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