August opened with a resounding vote of confidence in Luka Doncic’s Lakers future: a three-year, $165 million maximum extension that locked in the Slovenian superstar through 2028, complete with a player option to chase an even bigger payday later. The deal brought immediate stability just before Doncic jetted off for EuroBasket duties, where he dazzled with 39 points in Slovenia’s quarterfinal loss to Germany on Wednesday, ending their run in a gritty 99-91 defeat.

Now, with international play in the rearview, Doncic can refocus on Los Angeles—and he’s already flexing his influence, reportedly pushing for the additions of DeAndre Ayton at center and Marcus Smart on the wing to bolster the Purple and Gold’s title push.That same blueprint could soon apply to Andrew Wiggins. The former No.

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