Lakers Explore Aggressive Trade Options Following Doncic‘s EuroBasket Performance
Los Angeles, CA – the Los Angeles Lakers are signaling a willingness to aggressively pursue trades to bolster their championship aspirations, spurred by Luka Dončić’s dominant performance at EuroBasket and a re-evaluation of the team’s timeline, according to sources within the organization. General Manager Rob Pelinka emphasized the importance of “optionality” in team building, suggesting the Lakers are prepared to capitalize on opportunities now, not just after the potential end of the LeBron James era.
Dončić led Slovenia throughout the tournament, further solidifying his status as a top player in the world. Pelinka stated, “Luka’s play in EuroBasket made it clear to the entire basketball world that he’s on that incredibly short list of ‘best player on the planet’ candidates, if not at the top.” This performance has prompted the Lakers to consider how to best position themselves for future success, even while James remains a key contributor.
The Lakers’ willingness to explore trades is supported by their current roster construction. They will begin training camp with 14 players, including Rui Hachimura ($18.3 million), gabe Vincent ($11.5 million), and Maxi Kleber ($11 million) on expiring contracts. Furthermore, the team possesses the ability to include their 2031 or 2032 first-round picks in potential deals and, with Dončić under a long-term contract, are open to acquiring players with contracts extending beyond 2026.
“If there are smart ways to pour into our championship aspirations for next year,we will execute on those,” Pelinka said. “And we see having those two players on our team next year [as] an vital moment, and we’ll continue to try to do all we can to deliver this franchise its 18th championship.”
The Lakers organization expressed gratitude for the support received during EuroBasket, noting the presence of rob, Jeanie Buss, Kurt Rambis, linda Rambis, and Dr. Sims in Poland, and also the enthusiastic support from Lakers fans cheering for Slovenia.
A source close to Dončić confirmed his commitment to winning a championship, stating, “He stresses every single day that his goal is to win a championship. He trusts the front office to do their part,and he trusts what they’re building.” This alignment between player and management signals a unified focus on immediate contention.
