I thought this was interesting:
Quote:
Harrison said the trade was made to "make our team better," but he also mentioned Doncic's contractual situation as a consideration. Doncic was eligible to sign a five-year, $345 million supermax contract this summer, and league sources said he anticipated agreeing to that deal.
Instead, the Mavericks traded him before they could offer him such an extension. Because of the trade, Doncic no longer qualifies for a supermax deal. He can sign an extension with the Lakers for as much as $229 million over five years this summer. Doncic can opt out of his contract after the 2025-26 season, when several teams, including the Miami Heat, are expected to make a maximum offer to free agents.
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It's now in Doncic's best interest to opt out after next season, so Lakers may only have him for a season and a half.
Explains why they didn't have to give up more draft capital for him, especially if Doncic wasn't aware of the trade talks and wasn't able to engage with the Lakers in future contract negotiations.