This past weekend, the Los Angeles Lakers confirmed signing Luka Doncic to a three-year maximum contract extension. The agreement was officially sealed by Doncic on Saturday. Following the signing, the Lakers organized a press conference to publicize this significant update. The event saw a turnout of Doncic’s teammates, including some of the newly signed free agents, and was also attended by head coach JJ Redick.
Most of the Lakers roster here supporting Luka as he announces his new max contract. pic.twitter.com/Ihdqa4p9HB
— Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) August 2, 2025
Notably absent from the press event was LeBron James, although Lakers GM Rob Pelinka did hint at the possibility of James ending his career with the Lakers. Despite his absence, LeBron made sure to extend his congratulations to Doncic.
NBA insider Marc Stein shared insights on Sunday about the Doncic extension, revealing that James had reached out to Doncic on the morning of the signing.
“LeBron, along with his son Bronny James, were not present at the press conference, but I have learned that LeBron congratulated Dončić via FaceTime on Saturday morning regarding his new contract,” Stein reported on his Substack.
This information should dispel any rumors or speculations concerning the relationship between James and Doncic during the press conference.
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