The Los Angeles Lakers are gearing up for the 2025-26 NBA season with a roster that’s as star-studded as any in recent memory, and the stakes have never been higher. With LeBron James opting in for what could very well be his final campaign in purple and gold, and Luka Doncic freshly inked to a three-year, $165 million extension, the franchise is doubling down on its championship ambitions. The question on everyone’s mind? Can this new-look Lakers squad mesh all its firepower into a cohesive, title-winning unit—or will the weight of expectations prove too much?
It’s not just about the big names, though. The Lakers front office moved quickly in the offseason, bolstering their interior presence by signing Deandre Ayton to a two-year deal worth $34 million, with $8.1 million coming in year one after his buyout from Portland. Ayton, expected to anchor the paint, brings both scoring and defensive prowess—two areas L.A. desperately needed to address. On the perimeter, sharpshooter Rui Hachimura and clutch specialist Austin Reaves are primed to provide crucial spacing and scoring depth, supplementing the superstar core.
Luka Doncic, now fully integrated after a blockbuster mid-season trade from Dallas for Anthony Davis, is projected to be the Lakers’ offensive engine. With his slimmed-down physique and a clear mandate to lead, Doncic is pegged for a robust 29.5 points per game. "Luka will need to be in the MVP race and scoring title race to give the Lakers a chance to capture a top-4 seed in the West," one analyst noted, highlighting the immense pressure on the Slovenian sensation.
Meanwhile, LeBron James—approaching his 41st birthday—remains the heart and soul of the team, even as he transitions into a slightly reduced role. After averaging 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists last season, James is expected to see his scoring dip to around 24.0 PPG, with minutes carefully managed to preserve his legendary legs for a deep playoff run. The Lakers are counting on his leadership, playmaking, and ability to step up when it matters most. As one source put it, "James will also play fewer minutes, hopefully, and preserve his body for the postseason."
Behind the two superstars, Austin Reaves is expected to solidify his role as a reliable third option. Fresh off a breakout year that included a 45-point explosion and a franchise record for threes in a season, Reaves is projected to average 17.5 PPG. While his touches may decrease with Ayton in the mix, Reaves’ knack for big moments keeps him firmly in the Lakers’ plans. "Reaves won't reach the 20 PPG mark... but he will likely still put up fringe All-Star numbers," reads the projection from team insiders.
Ayton himself, coming off a season where he averaged 14.4 points and 10.2 rebounds with the Blazers, is slotted for about 14.2 PPG in L.A.’s star-driven offense. His role as the fourth option might not yield the same volume of touches, but his efficiency and presence in the paint are expected to elevate the Lakers’ interior game. "The big man will have to settle for being the fourth option on a championship team," one report stated, but the consensus is that Ayton’s numbers should hold steady.
Rui Hachimura, who averaged 14.8 PPG on blistering efficiency in the playoffs and 13.1 PPG during the regular season, is projected at 12.9 PPG. His ability to stretch the floor and provide tough midrange scoring gives the Lakers valuable flexibility. Coach JJ Redick is said to trust Hachimura in crunch time, which could allow the forward to carve out an even bigger role depending on matchups and health.
The Lakers’ bench has also undergone a transformation, featuring several key additions and returning contributors. Dalton Knecht, who dazzled with a 37-point rookie performance, is expected to settle into a reserve role, averaging around 6 PPG as a three-point specialist. Marcus Smart, the veteran defensive ace, joins the squad and is projected to contribute about 8 PPG off the bench, bringing grit and experience to the backcourt.
Jake LaRavia, a developmental wing acquired for his size and shooting ability, is pegged at 6.7 PPG. Bronny James, making history alongside his father as the NBA’s first father-son duo, is projected to average 6.4 PPG as he adjusts to the league’s pace and physicality. While Bronny’s role will be limited, coach Redick has been cautious not to thrust him into the spotlight too soon, preferring a gradual development path.
Gabe Vincent, who logged 6.4 PPG last season, remains a valuable floor-spacing backup guard, expected to contribute 6.1 PPG. The Lakers reportedly declined trade offers for both Vincent and defensive specialist Jarred Vanderbilt, choosing to retain their depth despite a limited asset pool after years of aggressive trading. Vanderbilt, if healthy, is projected to average 5.5 PPG, providing energy and defensive versatility in small-ball lineups.
Jaxson Hayes re-signed for another year and will serve as Ayton’s backup, likely averaging 4.5 PPG with his rim-running and shot-blocking prowess. Adou Thiero, the 22-year-old No. 36 pick in the 2025 Draft, could chip in 3.2 PPG as he learns the ropes at the NBA level. Maxi Kleber, acquired in the Luka trade, is expected to add 3.0 PPG as a specialist floor-spacer off the bench.
Off the court, the Lakers are making moves to support their roster’s health and longevity. The team recently hired Jeremy Holsopple as their new head strength and conditioning coach. Holsopple, previously named the NBA’s top strength coach in 2021 during his tenure with Dallas, is tasked with keeping the Lakers’ aging stars and young prospects in peak condition for the grueling season ahead.
While the Lakers’ asset pool is thin after years of high-profile trades, the front office’s decision to retain Vincent and Vanderbilt signals a commitment to maintaining depth and defensive flexibility. At the same time, rumors swirl about LeBron James’ future, with his agent hinting that the 40-year-old icon could depart after this season in pursuit of another championship ring elsewhere. As one report noted, "LeBron James... wants to win another title, and the Lakers are trying to contend, but other teams are closer and he may join them over the offseason."
Elsewhere, a former Lakers draft pick from a few years ago signed with a team overseas after failing to secure an NBA roster spot, underscoring the team’s focus on present-day contention over long-term development projects.
As training camp approaches, Lakers fans are left with a tantalizing mix of optimism and uncertainty. The roster boasts one of the most formidable collections of talent in recent memory, but success will hinge on chemistry, health, and the ability of role players to step up when the stars need a breather. With LeBron and Luka leading the charge, and a deep supporting cast ready to contribute, the Lakers are set for a season packed with intrigue, drama, and—just maybe—a run at NBA glory. The journey begins soon, and all eyes will be on L.A. to see if this ambitious experiment can deliver the ultimate prize.
