Luka Doncic’s 2024-25 NBA season came to an unexpectedly early conclusion. After reaching the NBA Finals the previous year with the Dallas Mavericks, Doncic saw his season end in the first round this time as the Minnesota Timberwolves eliminated the Los Angeles Lakers with a 103-96 win in Game 5 at Crypto.com Arena on Wednesday.
The Lakers were expected to win the series, but the Timberwolves consistently outperformed them in key moments to secure the upset in just five games. Although Doncic’s first postseason run with the Lakers didn’t go as hoped, he still delivered impressive numbers.
Against Minnesota, Doncic posted averages of 30.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, 5.8 assists, 1.0 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game. The 26-year-old led the team offensively throughout the series, though his performance on defense left much to be desired.
Despite those defensive shortcomings, there’s little doubt the Lakers are eager to offer him a major extension this offseason. Although Doncic is no longer eligible for a supermax deal due to the trade from Dallas, he can still sign a four-year, $228.6 million extension starting August 2.
Following the Game 5 defeat, Doncic was asked during his press conference whether he’s made a decision about signing the extension.
“I didn’t think it yet,” Doncic responded via Spectrum Sportsnet. “I’ve been focused on basketball. So obviously this is the time now to think about everything.”
He was also asked about his experience so far with the Lakers and whether he envisions a long-term future with the team.“It’s been great, honestly,” Doncic said. “The way the fans accepted me, it’s been amazing. The way the community accepted me has been amazing. So, I’m really glad that I’m here. I had a great couple of months, but still trying to learn about everything, about the city, about the team. So, just trying to process everything.”
Doncic has just completed the third season of the five-year, $215 million contract he inked with the Mavericks in 2021. If he opts out of his $48.9 million player option for the 2026-27 season, he’ll become a freeagent in 2026.
