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NBA
Lakers offseason outlook: Will L.A. finally put the proper pieces around Luka DonÄiÄ?
TL;DR
The Lakers face a pivotal offseason after being swept by the Thunder, raising questions about LeBron James' future and roster changes. Key considerations include Austin Reaves' free agency and how to build a team around Luka DonÄiÄ.
Key points
- Lakers were swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder
- LeBron James' future with the team is uncertain
- Austin Reaves is facing free agency
- Lakers need to tailor a roster around Luka DonÄiÄ
- Focus on fitting pieces instead of on-ball players
Los Angeles LakersOklahoma City Thunder
As the final buzzer sounded and the Los Angeles Lakers were swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder, the organization enters the summer with questions ā and plenty of them.
Will LeBron James return or will he seek greener pastures?
What about Austin Reaves and his pending free agency?
Will the franchise embrace the presence of Luka DonÄiÄ and tailor a roster around him, loaded with pieces that actually fit, instead of pushing more on-ball players toward him?
That last question, in particular, is one that should be heavily prioritized.
Neither James nor Reaves has the same importance or influence as DonÄiÄ, meaning building around the Slovenian is an outright necessity.
DonÄiÄ, who averaged 33.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 8.3 assists this season, is under contract for at least two more years ā his age-27 and age-28 seasons ā and itās crucial the Lakers capitalize on his physical prime.
Let's get into their summer.
2025-26 finish
Record: 53-29, fourth in Western Conference. Swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second round.
Highlight of the season
DonÄiÄ's 60-point game against the Miami Heat on March 19. He shot 18-of-30 from the floor and hit nine 3s. It was fun, it was loose, and the Lakers played with a level of joy not often seen this season.
Q&A
What are the Lakers' biggest offseason questions after being swept?
The Lakers' major offseason questions include LeBron James' potential departure, Austin Reaves' free agency, and how to effectively build a roster around Luka DonÄiÄ.
Will LeBron James return to the Lakers next season?
LeBron James' return is uncertain as the team reevaluates its direction following a disappointing playoff exit.
How can the Lakers build a better team around Luka DonÄiÄ?
The Lakers need to focus on acquiring players that complement Luka DonÄiÄ's style, moving away from on-ball heavy players to create a more balanced roster.
