ESPN salary expert Bobby Marks wrote an article about issues related to Lakers star Doncic's future contract.

Marks wrote: "Doncic confirmed to ESPN reporter Malika Andrews in an interview before the playoffs that he intends to stay in the Lakers, but the team needs to show the post-James era lineup blueprint. Regarding Doncic's contract renewal, August 2 is the first day to sign, and there are multiple options.

One plan is a four-year, $229 million maximum salary contract, of which $51 million annual salary in the 2026-27 season will replace the player option; more likely, a three-year, $165 million contract renewal, including the third-year player option. Short-term contract renewal can allow Doncic to return to the free market faster and may make up for the $345 million he lost from the Mavericks when he was traded."