After losing to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round of the 2025 playoffs, the Los Angeles Lakers decided to make multiple offseason trades, including acquiring center Deandre Ayton from Portland, resigning Jaxxon Hayes, and now signing the former Defensive Player of the Year, Marcus Smart. With Lebron James coming back to play his 23rd season in the NBA, and with Luka Dončić signing a three-year, $165 million extension with the Lakers, it’s safe to say the Lakers are ready to go all in coming into the 2025-2026 season.
As the dust settles on their offseason moves, the Lakers now shift focus to the challenges ahead. Training camp will be crucial for building chemistry between returning players and the new additions. Head coach JJ Redick will need to find the right rotations early, striking a balance between veteran minutes and the development of younger talent like Austin Reaves and Mark Williams.
What is next for the organization
Health remains the biggest X-factor. Managing LeBron James’ and Luka Dončić’s health and availability, the front office may still be active, keeping an eye on the trade and buyout markets as the season progresses, especially if a key piece becomes available.
Ultimately, the Lakers’ success will depend on how well this retooled roster meshes and whether they can find consistency throughout the long regular season. The goal is clear: stay healthy, stay competitive, and peak in time for the playoffs. Anything less than a deep postseason run will be seen as a disappointment in Laker Nation.