Although not directly, the Luka Dončić trade, from the Dallas Mavericks to the Los Angeles Lakers, had a significant impact on the LA Clippers. Not only did it strengthen LA's long-time rival, which has rostered Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and other legends, but it also proved that weaknesses, even from a loyal superstar, can lead to a trade in the cold business of the NBA.
Furthermore, the Lakers did not make much noise in the first run of Dončić's era, but 2024-25 will likely be among the few disappointing finishes of his time in Los Angeles. Their front office added Marcus Smart, a former Defensive Player of the Year, and others like Deandre Ayton to give fans a reason to fasten their seatbelts for what should be an exciting joy ride.
However, with James, the NBA community is aware that his retirement is likely around the corner, despite nothing being officially announced. He is 40 years old, about to begin his 23rd season, which is unheard of considering the level of stardom he has achieved.
That said, the Lakers' front office had to seal their future, and they proceeded quickly with extension negotiations with Dončić and his agent. In the end, a three-year, $165 million extension for the superstar guard was announced, but the implications for the years ahead could affect the Clippers' game plan beyond Kawhi Leonard and James Harden.
The timing of Luka Dončić's extension makes him eligible for a historical payday in the future, impacting the Clippers' run for Giannis
As someone who will be in the MVP discussion yearly, Luka Dončić is the type of superstar a front office should offer a blank check. He will be receiving an average of $53 million annually, but the player option he will have, if Dončić enters free agency, makes him qualified to sign a five-year, $417 million deal.
The player option in 2028-29 is key because Luka will have 10 years of service.
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) August 2, 2025
If he becomes a FA, he would then be eligible to sign up to a five year and projected $417M (yes, that’s not a typo) contract with the Lakers. https://t.co/7EndjC74VB
Moreover, this implies the market is trending north, especially for the best of the best, and someone whom the LA Clippers will surely strive to attain is Giannis Antetokounmpo. His agent, Alex Saratsis, will likely consider the contracts of Dončić and others, such as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, before making a generous request to teams like the Clippers, who will be prepared for the most extensive outcome.
In this circumstance, Lawrence Frank would be pressured to sign Antetokounmpo for their next era, but with a massive chunk of change going to the face of the franchise, the remaining spending amount will be less, making the Clippers' budget far too thin for a strong supporting cast.