When Luka Doncic got traded to the Lakers, the NBA world was shocked for two reasons. One of course he is now purple and gold. And second? he also had to give up a potential five-year, $346 million super-max deal in 2025. That’s a $116 million loss—tough to swallow for anyone. But while the money might sting, Hof Dwyane Wade believes it’s worth every penny. Meanwhile, Gilbert Arenas had a completely different take—one that might just put Luka at ease.

Speaking on his podcast, Wade summed it up in just five words: “He’s going to the Lakers… He get that.” The move itself, in Wade’s eyes, brings its own financial perks. The spotlight, the brand deals, and the sheer market power of playing in LA might just make up for what Doncic left on the table. After all, history has shown that superstars who don the Purple & Gold tend to land on their feet—financially and legacy-wise.

But it was Gilbert Arenas who really shut down any doubts about Doncic’s bank account. During his watch-along stream, a fan pointed out how much money Luka lost, saying, “Gil, Luka would have been a billionaire before 35 if Mavs didn’t trade him.” And Arenas fired back, “He gon’….. Listen, he gonna probably be a billionaire any m———- way, just being in LA.”

And he might have a point. Recent reports suggest that Doncic is expected to sign a max extension with the Lakers this summer—potentially a five-year, $229 million deal, averaging $57.25 million per year. Plus, if he opts for a player option after three years, he could be in line for an even bigger payday in 2028 when he reaches 10 years of service.

So, while Luka isn’t eligible for a super-max extension due to trade rules, he still has a path to recoup that lost $116 million. How?

How can Luka Doncic recover $116 million?

According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, Doncic still has three years and $115.08 million left on his current contract, with a player option for the 2026-27 season. If he declines that option, the Lakers could throw a jaw-dropping five-year, $296 million deal his way.

But that’s not his only route. Doncic could lock in an extension with the Lakers as early as this August. That would mean a four-year, $228.6 million deal starting in 2026-27. And if he wanted to explore free agency instead, other teams could offer him a four-year, $219.4 million contract—still elite money, though not quite Lakers-level.

However, if Luka plays it smart, there’s an even sweeter move. He could sign a three-year extension this summer with a player option for the 2028-29 season. By then, he’d hit 10 years of service in the league, unlocking eligibility for a much bigger contract.

And here’s where it gets wild. If Doncic follows that path, his projected salary for the 2028-29 season would skyrocket to $72 million. That would pave the way for a five-year, $418 million deal with the Lakers—a contract that not only erases the $116 million sting but leaves it in the dust.