The Los Angeles Lakers could split up their superstar duo of LeBron James and Luka Dončić if they struggle to start the season.

Luka Dončić is evidently a playmaker on and off the court. Bringing Marcus Smart to the Los Angeles Lakers was a team effort, one in which Dončić played a meaningful role. On Tuesday, Smart spoke with reporters for his introductory Lakers news conference and credited the recruiting efforts of Dončić as one reason why he's in Los Angeles after reaching a buyout agreement with the Washington Wizards.

The Los Angeles Lakers are making it clear they’re all-in on Luka Dončić, especially after reports surfaced that the team no longer sees LeBron James as part of its

As Dončić enters his first full season with the Lakers, the more pressing question is about his expiring contract. The Slovenian superstar will make a shade under $46 million this season, and he has an opt-out clause for 2026-27 at just below $49 million.

Dončić will be competing with the Slovenian national team this summer and can take several different paths with a long-term deal

The Los Angeles Lakers reportedly told their new star, Luka Dončić, not LeBron James, about their impending sale that occurred last month.

Though talks of LeBron James leaving the Los Angeles Lakers this offseason have seemingly cooled down, his future is still in question heading into the 2025-26 campaign.