Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Dončić has adopted a win-now mentality as he prepares for the 2025-26 NBA season. According to insights provided during ESPN's NBA Today by Dave McMenamin, a source close to Dončić revealed that his focus is on immediate success. The implication is clear: Dončić is not merely settling into his new role with the Lakers; he is fully committed to achieving victory this year and in the following years. With his name associated with the franchise, he anticipates being positioned to compete for championships at Crypto.com Arena.

Luka Dončić is eligible to sign a substantial four-year, $229 million contract extension, which is set to be finalized soon. ClutchPoints' Brett Siegel reported that Dončić, currently engaged in a promotional tour with Jordan Brand, intends to complete this extension upon his return to Los Angeles. League sources indicate that meetings with Rob Pelinka and the Lakers' management are anticipated, where Dončić will officially sign the contract to affirm his commitment to the franchise.

This summer, Dončić has made significant efforts to improve his physical condition, highlighted by his appearance on the cover of Men's Health and an exclusive interview discussing his fitness journey. Since being traded from the Dallas Mavericks to the Lakers, he has participated in less than half a season with L.A., contributing to a 50-win record and a third seed in the Western Conference. The Lakers, however, were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Minnesota Timberwolves, prompting Dončić's determination for a deeper postseason run this upcoming year. With the recent additions of center Deandre Ayton and guard Marcus Smart, coupled with the existing core including LeBron James and Austin Reaves, the Lakers are poised to compete strongly in the Western Conference against formidable foes such as the Oklahoma City Thunder and the revamped Houston Rockets led by Kevin Durant.