The Luka Doncic Trade: Unraveling the Uncertainty
The recent blockbuster trade that sent Luka Doncic to the Lakers has left many wondering about the future of the franchise. While it’s easy to assume that Doncic will be the next superstar to lead the Lakers for the next decade, there’s a crucial aspect of this trade that raises questions.
A Closer Look at the Deal
Typically, when a team makes a trade of this magnitude, the player gives their agent or the team a nod that they’ll sign an extension if eligible. However, in this case, it’s clear that Doncic or his agent had no idea the trade was in the works. This means it’s possible that Doncic didn’t inform the Lakers that he’d immediately sign an extension.
The Consequences of the Trade
Before the trade, Doncic was eligible for a massive $350M supermax extension. Now, that deal is off the table. With the supermax no longer an option, what’s the rush for Doncic to extend? He’s lost out on a significant amount of money, and it’s not unreasonable to think he might wait to capitalize on the new TV deal money as the cap continues to rise.
A World of Possibilities
It’s possible that Doncic will wait to extend, opting instead to hit the open market and choose his next destination. Alternatively, he might sign a short-term extension, allowing him to re-up once he hits 10 years of service and becomes eligible for 35% of the cap. The possibilities are endless, and it’s exciting to consider the different scenarios that could play out.
The Risks Involved
Both the Lakers and the Mavs are taking massive risks with this trade. The Lakers gave up significant assets, including AD and a 2029 pick, and may only get 1.5 years of Doncic if he doesn’t extend. The Mavs, on the other hand, have hitched their wagon to a 32-year-old center, and it’s unclear if Kyrie Irving will stay long-term.
The Future is Uncertain
Time will tell how this trade shakes out, but one thing is certain – it’s anyone’s guess at this point. The financials, team success, and roster building will all play a role in determining Doncic’s future with the Lakers. While logic suggests that few superstars would turn down max money and the opportunity to lead a historic franchise, this trade has already defied logic in many ways.
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