Guard Luka Dončić of the Los Angeles Lakers has adopted a win-now mentality as he prepares for the upcoming 2025-26 NBA season. This perspective was highlighted by Dave McMenamin on Moneyline's analysis segment, where he discussed insights shared by sources close to Dončić, indicating that the player is not merely committed to the Lakers but is eager to achieve immediate success. Dončić's attitude reflects his desire to compete for championships, as he expects to be in a position to contend for titles during his tenure with the team.

As the start date for a four-year, $229 million contract extension approaches, Dončić is anticipated to finalize this significant deal. Reports by Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints suggest that upon his return to Los Angeles from a Jordan Brand promotional tour, Dončić will officially meet with Rob Pelinka and Lakers management to sign the extension. His commitment to maintaining peak physical condition has been publicly acknowledged, with Dončić featuring on the cover of Men's Health magazine and discussing his rigorous training regimen.

Following a mid-season trade from the Dallas Mavericks to the Lakers, Dončić played a pivotal role in leading the team to a 50-win season and securing the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference playoffs. However, their postseason run was cut short in the first round by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Having previously guided the Mavericks to the Western Conference title in 2024, Dončić aims for a deeper playoff journey with the Lakers this season. With the addition of key players like Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart to the existing core, including four-time NBA MVP LeBron James and Austin Reaves, the Lakers seem poised for a competitive run in the Western Conference, facing formidable rivals such as the reigning champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder, and the revamped Houston Rockets led by Kevin Durant.