Conversely, while James' future in L.A. still remains up in the air, it's expected that Doncic will re-sign with the team, according to ESPN's Dave McMenamin. The Lakers can offer Doncic a four-year, $229 million extension on Aug. 2, or he can sign a three-year, $165 million extension with a 2028 player option.

Ayton can give Luka Dončić the instant lob threat that he has craved ever since the Lakers acquired him in February. Ayton can give the Lakers easy buckets partly because LeBron James prides himself on making the right pass. Ayton can give the Lakers the steady rim protection they lacked in the playoffs after trading Anthony Davis.

Everything the Los Angeles Lakers do going forward will be done with Luka Dončić in mind. The team's latest move, signing center Deandre Ayton to a two-year, $16.6 million deal, reportedly has his blessing.