Mark Cuban
September 2025
Former Mavericks owner Mark Cuban reflected on Luka Doncic’s stunning trade to the Lakers, saying he still has a strong personal bond with the Slovenian despite the shock move. Cuban admitted on Gilbert Arenas’ podcast he “loves Luka off the court but not on it” after losing the superstar he once tried to connect with by learning Slovenian. The trade remains one of the NBA’s most seismic.
Pat Riley (Los Angeles Lakers)
August 2025
The Los Angeles Lakers will unveil a statue of legendary coach Pat Riley outside their arena before facing the Boston Celtics. Riley, who won four NBA titles during the Showtime era, joins Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Riley coached the Lakers to a 533-194 record and five 60-win seasons, shaping NBA history with fast-break dominance. Now president of Miami Heat, he remains one of basketball’s most influential figures. The tribute cements his legacy alongside other Lakers greats.
Luka Doncic (Los Angeles Lakers)
August 2025
Doncic signed a three-year, $165M max extension with the Lakers, urging the team to act fast in building a contender after tasting the Finals. The 26-year-old told Rob Pelinka and JJ Redick he’s not willing to wait for a rebuild, aiming to end the Lakers’ five-year title drought and usher in a new championship era.
Luka Doncic (Los Angeles Lakers)
August 2025
Luka Doncic has signed a three-year, $165 million max extension with the Lakers, locking in through 2028 with a player option. He bypassed 2026 free agency, solidifying his future with the franchise. After averaging 28.2 points last season, Doncic expressed his desire to win titles and earn his place among Laker greats. The Slovenian star has shown renewed commitment through offseason conditioning and helped recruit Ayton and Smart.
Luka Doncic (Los Angeles Lakers)
Summer 2025 (Post-playoffs to July)
Luka Doncic revealed a dramatic physical transformation after spending two months training in Croatia. He credits a gluten-free, low-sugar, high-protein diet and intermittent fasting for reshaping his body. Men’s Health highlighted his progress with slimmer photos and new fitness details.
After an injury-riddled season, Doncic began training the day after the Lakers’ playoff exit. He cut basketball for a month and focused on strength, diet, and conditioning. Inspired by Kobe and MJ, he now eyes long-term improvement and a possible $222M contract extension.
Marcus Smart (Washington Wizards > Los Angeles Lakers)
July 2025
Marcus Smart has agreed to a buyout with the Wizards and will sign a two-year, $11 million deal with the Lakers, including a 2026 player option. He rejoins a playoff-caliber roster after two injury-hit seasons.
Luka Doncic personally recruited Smart to the Lakers, who prioritized a defensive guard after losing Dorian Finney-Smith. The Lakers will waive Shake Milton to open a roster spot for Smart, filling a critical defensive gap.
Deandre Ayton (Trail Blazers > Los Angeles Lakers)
July 2025
Free agent center Deandre Ayton has signed a two-year deal with the Lakers after finalizing a buyout with the Trail Blazers. He’ll earn $34 million next season and has a player option in Year 2.
Ayton chose the Lakers over several contenders after clearing waivers. He’ll anchor L.A.’s starting lineup alongside Luka Doncic, forming a top 2018 draft duo. He averaged 14.4 PPG and 10.2 RPG last season.
LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers)
June 2025
LeBron James has exercised his $52.6 million player option for the 2025–26 season, confirming he’ll return for a record-setting 23rd NBA campaign. He remains focused on contending for a fifth championship before deciding on retirement.
Despite past speculation about his future and retirement hints, LeBron’s agent Rich Paul confirmed his intent to stay with L.A. He will monitor the Lakers’ offseason moves closely, especially as the team seeks a new center to fill gaps exposed in their playoff loss.
Los Angeles Lakers, Buss Family
June 2025
The Buss family has agreed to sell majority ownership of the Lakers to Mark Walter for a record $10 billion franchise valuation, the highest ever for a U.S. sports team.
The family will retain a minority stake (just over 15%), and Jeanie Buss will remain team governor “for at least a number of years.” Walter, already a Lakers shareholder since 2021, leads TWG Global and owns major stakes in the Dodgers, Chelsea FC, and more. Magic Johnson and Luka Dončić were informed and support the move.
LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers)
June 2025
LeBron James is prioritizing recovery from a left knee sprain ahead of his 23rd NBA season, with plans to return fully fit for training camp in September.
After averaging 24.4 points last season and making All-NBA, LeBron remains committed to playing, driven by his family and the chance to share the court with Bronny. He has no set retirement timeline and holds a $56.2M player option.
