Doncic helps the Lakers sign Ayton and Smart, and enters the best of their careers

According to US sports media F/W reporter Vishvesha Kumar. Doncic may not have spoken publicly about his future with the Lakers, but his behind-the-scenes action this summer is more telling than any statement. With the August 2 renewal decision approaching, the 26-year-old superstar has acted like a cornerstone of the team, recruiting key free agents, reshaping the roster to fit his vision and undergoing a dramatic physical transformation that left teammates and opponents buzzing.

Doncic reportedly played a central role in helping the Lakers win both Ayton and Smart. After two players unexpectedly gained availability through a contract buyout, league sources confirmed that Luca personally extended a helping hand, put forward the Lakers’ vision and helped complete the deal. These are not just random additions, they are exactly the kind of players Doncic asks for. He has communicated his desire for the rim running big guys, outside defense and shooting depth to the front. In response, the Lakers brought in Ayton, Smart and sharpshooter Laravia to effectively check every position.

This proactive approach is far from the uncertainty many expected after the amazing mid-season deal that brought Doncic to Los Angeles. The deal was one of the most shocking moves in modern NBA history, caught Luca off guard, who never thought he would be traded by Dallas. However, instead of sulking or asking for immediate change, Doncic leaned forward and worked to build something sustainable in Los Angeles. The promise is one of the main reasons why the Lakers remain optimistic about locking him in a long-term contract next month, people familiar with the matter said.

Let people talk about more than just front-end collaboration. Doncic spent the offseason in Europe, but not for vacation. Instead, he has been focusing on what many call “revenge shining” and getting into the best of his life before the European basketball championship. Gone are the lingering fatigue or soft regulation that critics target in the past. Instead, a slimmer, faster, and more explosive Luca, determined to shut up the skeptics and dominate his new purple gold line.

Working behind closed doors, the Lakers were very excited. Head coach Redick and general manager Pelinka reportedly believe this version of Doncic is healthier, sharper and more engaged, which may lead the team deeper than most people expected. This optimism will only be amplified by the supporting role. Hachimura is finishing his best season, shooting more than 40% from the field. Reeves and James will have a full training camp to build chemistry with Luca. And Ayton, in a contract year, had every reason to be the best self with an elite pick-and-roll partner.

Meanwhile, Laravia will finally get a stable playing time, and Smart will bring the title of Defensive Player of the Year to the backcourt if he is healthy. The Lakers achieved that while retaining their 2031 first-round pick and retaining young assets like Knecht. In a summer full of chaos, the Lakers have quietly and clearly acted, and Doncic has been at the heart of it all. Now, all eyes are focused on August 2. Because if this is the Luca version of the Lakers moving forward, then renewal will be more than just a form, but the beginning of something special.