In a move that sent shockwaves throughout the basketball world, the Los Angeles Lakers recently inked superstar LeBron James to a massive two-year, $104 million contract extension. This contract also includes a player option for the 2025-26 season and a coveted no-trade clause, solidifying James’ commitment to the Lakers organization. However, while securing James for the foreseeable future is a monumental achievement, the Lakers must now turn their attention to another key piece of their puzzle: Anthony Davis.
Davis, a cornerstone of the Lakers’ roster, is in line for an even more lucrative extension than James. According to Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report, Davis could command a jaw-dropping three-year deal worth an eye-popping $212.2 million. Such a hefty price tag begs the question – is Anthony Davis worth $212 million for the Lakers?
As the Lakers look ahead to a post-LeBron future, the looming question of whether to commit such a substantial sum to Davis arises. With James possibly retiring by 2027-28, the Lakers may find themselves on the cusp of a rebuild. While Davis unquestionably possesses elite talent, committing over $200 million to him during a rebuilding phase may give the Lakers pause.
Nevertheless, the Lakers have always been a magnet for top-tier free agents, even in times of transition. The possibility of signing another star after James retires remains a distinct possibility, ensuring that the Lakers will continue to be a force to be reckoned with.
One intriguing rumor circulating in the basketball community involves the Lakers’ interest in young phenom Luka Dončić. Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer fueled speculation on “The Mismatch” podcast, stating that the Lakers “have their sights set on Luka Dončić in the future.” While the feasibility of such a move is uncertain, especially given Dallas’s recent success, the Lakers’ decision to hold onto their future draft picks signals a commitment to long-term planning rather than a win-now approach centered around James.
As the Lakers navigate the complexities of building for the future while remaining competitive in the present, the saga of Anthony Davis’ contract extension promises to be a crucial storyline in the team’s journey. Will Davis ultimately secure his own massive payday, or will the Lakers pivot in a different direction as they chart a course for sustained success? Only time will tell.
