Luka Doncic Talks 'Honor' of Playing For Lakers, Aims to Have Jersey Retired by Team
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic, who signed a three-year, $165 million extension with L.A. on Saturday, spoke to reporters about the "honor" it is to play the team as well as a big personal goal of having his jersey retired in the stadium rafters someday.
Dončić is under contract for at least the next three seasons. He can opt out of his current deal in 2028.
Dončić joined the Lakers on February 1 after the Dallas Mavericks stunningly traded the superstar to L.A. for a package that notably included 10-time All-Star and big man Anthony Davis. The 26-year-old fared well in his short time with L.A. last year, averaging 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, 7.5 assists and 1.6 steals per game.
Dončić helped lead the Lakers to a 50-win season and the Western Conference's No. 3 seed. However, L.A.'s postseason lasted just five games, as the No. 6 seed Minnesota Timberwolves dispatched the Lakers in the first round.
However, there's great hope the Lakers could have a deeper run next time around. Obviously, Dončić is back, and so is four-time NBA MVP/reigning All-NBA Second Teamer LeBron James as he defies time and enters year 23. But the Lakers got better this offseason, adding a sorely needed big man (Deandre Ayton) and some help off the bench in guard Marcus Smart and forward Jake LaRavia.
Ultimately, Dončić is committed to the Lakers for at least three years, and he's hoping to establish a great legacy in town. It looks like the Lakers are positioned to compete and win this season, which could help Dončić get off to a good start toward his goals.
