The Los Angeles Lakers have officially secured the future of their franchise by signing five-time All-NBA First Team guard Luka Dončić to a contract extension. The 26-year-old superstar, who joined the Lakers via trade in February 2025, will remain in Los Angeles for the long haul—solidifying his place as the centerpiece of the team’s championship aspirations.
“Luka is one of the game’s most transcendent players… Luka will lead our franchise to pursue future championships, a goal that will forever define the Lakers,” said Rob Pelinka, Lakers President of Basketball Operations and General Manager.
Since arriving, Dončić has made an immediate impact on and off the court. In 28 regular season games with the Purple and Gold, he averaged 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists. With career averages of 28.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 8.2 assists over 450 games, he currently holds the third-highest scoring average in NBA history. His postseason resume is equally impressive, with a 30.9-point playoff scoring average and 10 career playoff triple-doubles.
“I truly believe in what we’re building together,” Dončić said. “I’m going to keep working as hard as I can to bring another championship to Los Angeles.”
In tandem with his extension, Dončić’s foundation is launching a $5 million initiative to support 77 young athletes worldwide, further cementing his commitment to community development in both Los Angeles and his native Slovenia.
Incoming Talent: Lakers Sign Four New Players
As Dončić anchors the Lakers’ future, the front office continues building around him by signing four standout collegiate players: RJ Davis, Eric Dixon, Arthur Kaluma, and Augustas Marčiulionis.
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RJ Davis, a 6’0” guard from UNC, brings scoring consistency and backcourt experience. The 2024 ACC Player of the Year averaged 17.2 points and 3.6 assists last season, finishing his collegiate career with 15.6 PPG across 175 games. He showed promise during Summer League play, including a 17-point performance against Denver.
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Eric Dixon, a 6’8” forward from Villanova, joins as the program’s all-time leading scorer. He led the NCAA in scoring during the 2024-25 season with 23.3 points per game, also showcasing his long-range shooting with a 40.7% clip from deep.
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Arthur Kaluma, a 6’7” forward with stops at Creighton, Kansas State, and Texas, brings versatility and rebounding. In his senior year at Texas, he averaged 12.3 points and 7.5 boards, making 32 starts.
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Augustas Marčiulionis, a 6’4” guard from St. Mary’s, was named 2025 WCC Player of the Year. A strong playmaker with international roots, he averaged 14.2 points and 5.9 assists in his final season.
Looking Ahead
With Dončić locked in and a crop of high-upside talent entering the rotation, the Lakers are charting a bold new course—combining elite star power with strategic development. The offseason moves signal the franchise’s intent not only to contend in the short term but to build a sustainable powerhouse for years to come.
As Dončić put it: “This is just the beginning.”
