Brian Windhorst reveals Luka Doncic stress for Los Angeles Lakers

The 2024-25 NBA season was full of excitement and major headlines, but there is one that stands out above all others. Luka Doncic joined the Los Angeles Lakers in a stunning trade that saw the Dallas Mavericks part ways with their franchise player in an unfathomable move.

The Lakers were undone in the first round of the NBA Playoffs, with Luka and LeBron James unable to help them win even one series. The offseason has been about ensuring the future is bright with Luka on board, and Deandre Ayton was signed with that in mind. But it's not that simple.

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Lakers fans have been getting excited about Doncic reportedly getting into excellent shape this summer. However, they may not get to reap the benefits. Brian Windhorst explained the stressful scenario the team finds itself in.

"This happens when it's a player's second max contract," Windhorst said. "This is when players sometimes leave, or are not worth it. This is a stress max right now for Luka.

"The Lakers are a little bit stressed out about it... If he signs it, relief for the Lakers... If he does not sign it, you will see teams begin to open up maneuvers to try to chase Luka."

Doncic is eligible to sign a 4-year, $229 million deal with LA on August 2. However, the expectation is that he won't sign this season so he can potentially command more money next offseason.

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There is also the chance that he'd want to test out free agency. Should he become available, teams will offer him all they can in the next offseason. The Lakers could offer him a 2-year deal, which would allow him to pursue a max worth 35 percent of the salary cap in 2028.

It's an intriguing situation, to say the least. With LeBron James' future also a question mark, it's hard to be certain about anything regarding the Lakers at this time.

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