LeBron James says convincing Luka Doncic to stay with Lakers for the long haul is not his ‘job’

The King has spoken — and has made clear that he does not want a part in Luka Doncic’s decision to remain in Los Angeles.

LeBron James said that he does not plan to convince Doncic, 26, to stay with the Lakers for the long term, saying that it is not his “job,” according to ESPN.

Though that’s not to say he doesn’t want him to be part of the Lakers’ future plans.

“No, that ain’t my job,” James told the outlet. “I think … I don’t think, I know, Luka knows how I feel about him. And ultimately, that trade happened for the future. That’s not for me. Luka has to decide what he has to do with his future. He’s [26] years old, I’m 40, so he can’t be basing his career off me. That’s just real.

LeBron James looks on during the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves during Round 1 Game 4 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 27, 2025 at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NBAE via Getty Images

“But I hope, obviously, [he stays long term]. Laker fans f–king love him here. L.A. has accepted him. We love him as a teammate, as a brother. But ultimately, he’s got to make a decision for him. S–t, I ain’t going to be around much longer.”

Doncic’s current deal has a player option after next season, but he is eligible for an extension this summer.

On Aug. 2, the Lakers can offer Doncic a four-year extension worth $229 million.

The Lakers have made their intentions about Doncic clear — they would like to sign him to a long-term deal.

The Athletic reported that Doncic is “widely expected” to sign a deal with the Lakers.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic controls the ball against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the second half in game five of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

“I think Luka Doncic joining forces with the Los Angeles Lakers is a seismic event in NBA history,” Lakers general manager Pelinka said at his introductory news conference earlier this year.

Doncic was upset upon being unexpectedly dealt to the Lakers in February, having previously said that he wanted to retire with the Mavericks.

Despite saying that he wanted to stay with the Lakers ahead of the playoffs, Doncic will reportedly take time with his decision this offseason, per ESPN.

Doncic averaged 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds and 7.5 assists in 28 games after the trade to the Lakers, but Los Angeles was bounced in the first round of the playoffs by the Timberwolves.