LeBron James’ dominance at age 39 is remarkable, but his longevity may now be a roadblock for the Lakers’ future plans, particularly when it comes to signing the next big star, Luka Doncic.

Despite speculation that the Lakers could pursue the Mavericks‘ star to secure their future, as long as LeBron remains on the roster, such a move may be off the table.

LeBron, who recently signed a two-year, $101.3 million extension with the Lakers, also has a player option for next year, adding uncertainty to the franchise’s long-term plans.

His potential retirement looms over every decision the Lakers make, making it difficult for the team to commit fully to any pursuit of Doncic.

On the Locked On Lakers podcast, veteran media personality Brian Kamenetzky pointed out the dilemma, saying, “It’s hard to add that third star until LeBron is gone.” While LeBron continues to lead the team, the Lakers are stuck in a state of limbo, unsure whether to go all-in now or prepare for a future without their aging star.

Anthony Davis is part of the problem

Adding to the complexity, Anthony Davis, the other pillar of the Lakers’ current roster, signed a three-year, $186 million extension last summer.

Together with LeBron’s contract, the Lakers are just $45,000 below the league’s second apron, leaving little room to pursue another superstar-even though they desperately need one to build for the future.

Meanwhile, Doncic is expected to become eligible for a record-setting supermax contract extension next offseason, which could total five years and $346.3 million-the largest deal in NBA history.

In their current financial state, the Lakers simply can’t afford that kind of deal.

And if Doncic becomes available, every team in the league will be eager to lure the generational talent.

So where do the Lakers go from here? According to Kamenetzky, the Lakers’ front office, led by Rob Pelinka, must focus on planning for life after LeBron, despite his continued presence.

Who will inherit LeBron’s throne with the Lakers?

“This conversation to me isn’t just about Luka Doncic,”Kamenetzky said. “It’s really about the next star to play with Anthony Davis. Where are the Lakers gonna find the next star to play with AD when LeBron is gone?”

Historically, the Lakers have always attracted the biggest superstars to their franchise.

With Anthony Davis secured for four more years, Pelinka has made it clear that AD will be the focal point of the team moving forward.

But as LeBron’s future remains uncertain, the pressure is on to find the next star to lead the Lakers into the post-LeBron era. Whether that star is Luka Doncic or someone else, the Lakers have some big decisions ahead.