Luka Doncic Offers Non-Committal Response on Recruiting Lakers Teammates
The Los Angeles Lakers' season came to an end on Monday after the Oklahoma City Thunder swept them in the Western Conference semifinals. Luka Doncic was unable to suit up for the Lakers' entire postseason run due to a Grade 2 hamstring strain. Despite traveling to Spain to expedite his recovery, the six-time All-Star did not recover in time to help out his team.
After the 115-110 loss in Game 2, Doncic was asked about the team's roster ahead of free agency. A reporter asked the Slovenian star if he would help the organization recruit some of his teammates over the summer. However, he had a non-committal response to the question.
"We'll see. Can't tell you nothing," he said.
Reporter: Will you be trying to recruit Lebron, Austin, DA and Marcus again this summer?
— Luka Updates (@LukaUpdates) May 12, 2026
Luka: We'll see. Can't tell you nothing pic.twitter.com/Vbj0Y0H80T
Last summer, Doncic reportedly played a role in recruiting veteran guard Marcus Smart. The defensive guard signed a two-year, $10.5 million deal with the Lakers. His addition brought depth to the roster, especially on the defensive end. In the upcoming free agency, he has a $5.3 million player option, which he could exercise if he doesn't get an extension.
Doncic also helped recruit starting center Deandre Ayton, who signed a two-year, $16.2 million deal. Like Smart, Ayton has a player option ahead of free agency.
Lakers Players Who Luka Doncic Could Recruit This Summer
Ahead of free agency, there are a few Lakers players who have an uncertain future with the franchise. Starting with LeBron James, who is in the final season of his two-year, $101.3 million deal. The NBA star was not given a contract extension, which makes his outlook with the team uncertain.
There is also a chance that James could retire from the NBA after getting swept by the Thunder, ending his 23rd season. However, there is a chance that James could continue for another season, since he can still play like an All-Star.
The next Lakers player is Austin Reaves, who has a $14.8 million player option. According to reports, the undrafted guard is eligible to sign a five-year, max-level contract extension. The reported worth of his potential extension could range between $241 to $246 million.
Lastly, forward Rui Hachimura is set to be an unrestricted free agent this summer. He played well during the regular season and stepped up in the postseason. Without Doncic, Hachimura had four 2-point games and showcased that he's a threat from outside.
During the postgame presser, Hachimura expressed his love for the organization, fans and teammates. However, he said that a return to the Lakers is not up to him.
"I love it here, but [at the] end of the day, I'm not the one negotiating," the forward said.
Rui Hachimura says he has not thought about free agency yet, but offered this:
— Lakers Nation (@LakersNation) May 12, 2026
"I love this team, I love this organization... I really appreciate them and what they've done for me... I love it here, but end of the day, I'm not the one negotiating."
Doncic could help the Lakers recruit his teammates to remain with the Lakers for the 2026-27 season.
Related: Lakers Head Coach JJ Redick Defers Comments on LeBron James' Potential Final Game
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This story was originally published May 12, 2026 at 12:18 AM.