Luka Dončić's long-term future with the Los Angeles Lakers could be in flux depending on the team's performance, according to an NBA insider.
Tim MacMahon, an NBA reporter for ESPN, stated on "The Hoop Collective Podcast" that rival teams are keeping an eye on Dončić's situation.
"Just like Joker [Nikola Jokic] can profess his loyalty to the Nuggets, there’s still going to be teams that are positioned themselves and monitoring that and all that kind of thing. It’s the same thing with Luka Dončić," MacMahon said.
Despite Dončić expressing optimism about the Lakers since signing an extension, MacMahon noted that the deal is not exceptionally long-term. "It’s not that long term of an extension, and you better believe there’s teams around the league that are looking at that situation and saying, ‘Hey, if this thing goes sideways, we’d sure like to get Luka in the midway through his prime.'"
While MacMahon characterized these as speculative comments, he suggested that if the Lakers face significant challenges, such as injuries or underperformance, trading Dončić to initiate a rebuild could become a plausible strategy.
MacMahon's comments come as the Lakers' season outlook faces scrutiny. Dončić has reportedly expressed commitment to the franchise since his extension. However, if the team falters, his future could become a significant storyline.
Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts on the court during the first half at Barclays Center on Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026, in Brooklyn, NY.
Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic leaves the InterContinental Hotel for a team dinner on Thursday, Aug. 20, 2026, in Ljubljana, Slovenia. The dinner was held during the Lakers’ team mini camp.
The potential scenario remains one to watch as the upcoming NBA season approaches.