Although the Los Angeles Lakers are in win-now mode, they reportedly aren't closed off to the idea of making moves for the future as well. According to ESPN's Dave McMenamin, sources said the Lakers are "open to trading for a player on a contract that extends beyond 2026." However, the Lakers signed superstar guard Luka Doncic to a three-year, $160.8 million contract extension last month, suggesting they have ambitions and a plan to be contenders for years to come. Along with James, Dončić helped the Lakers go 50-32 and secure the No. Pelinka also added some depth in the form of forward Jake LaRavia and guard Marcus Smart to go with the established core of James, Dončić and Austin Reaves.