Kyrie Irving’s epic night spoiled by loss

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic said now is the time to start focusing on his future with the team. Until this point, Doncic had been focused on playing basketball and not his contract.

“I didn’t think about it yet,” Doncic said. “I’ve been focused on basketball. So obviously this is the time now to think about everything.”

In August, due to timing rules based on Doncic’s current contract, the Lakers can offer the superstar a four-year extension. Because he was traded to the Lakers, Doncic is no longer eligible to sign for the super max extension starting at 35% of the cap.

Doncic did join teammate LeBron James in endorsing the job that Lakers coach JJ Redick did this season.

“I think he’s a hell of a coach,” Doncic said. “I’m really glad I got coached by him these couple of months. It feels sometimes like I’m back in Europe a little bit. So I love it. We have a great bond. It’s been nothing but amazing with him as a coach.”