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Lakers Season Review: Injuries Interrupt Dominant Run Heading Into Playoffs
TL;DR
The Los Angeles Lakers' 2025-26 season featured a strong duo of LeBron James and Luka Doncic, but injuries interrupted their momentum heading into the playoffs. James missed the first 14 games due to a sciatic nerve issue, allowing Doncic and Austin Reaves to shine.
Key points
- Lakers featured LeBron James and Luka Doncic in the 2025-26 season
- LeBron missed first 14 games due to sciatic nerve issue
- Luka Doncic signed a three-year $165 million contract extension
- Doncic and Austin Reaves emerged as key players during LeBron's absence
- Injuries interrupted the Lakers' momentum heading into playoffs
Mentioned in this story
LeBron JamesLuka DoncicAustin Reaves
Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers came into the 2025-26 season with two of the greatest players in NBA history on the same roster: Luka Doncic and LeBron James.
While four-time NBA champion James is nearing the end of one of the most decorated athletic careers in history, Doncic is just 27 years old and the new face of the Lakers franchise. He has never won an NBA championship but made it clear that is his primary goal when he signed a three-year $165 million maximum contract extension with Los Angeles in the summer.
Pairing James and Doncic for their first full season together created one of the strongest duos currently in the NBA.
But James, who turned 41 on Dec. 30, missed the first 14 games of the season with a sciatic nerve issue. His absence opened the door for a different star duo to emerge: Doncic and Austin Reaves.
Mar 12, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) and guard Austin Reaves (15) react during the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Lakers Could Build Around Doncic and Reaves
Like Doncic, Reaves is 27 and still has a long career ahead of him.
Reaves turned down a contract extension with the Lakers last summer and will become an unrestricted free agent this summer. When both Doncic and James were out earlier this season with injuries, Reaves stepped up for the Lakers with some of the best performances of his career, including a against the on Oct. 26.
Q&A
What impact did LeBron James' injury have on the Lakers' season?
LeBron James' injury caused him to miss the first 14 games, which allowed Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves to take on more prominent roles.
How did Luka Doncic perform during the 2025-26 season with the Lakers?
Luka Doncic emerged as a key player for the Lakers, especially during LeBron's absence, and is focused on winning an NBA championship.
What is the significance of Luka Doncic's contract extension with the Lakers?
Luka Doncic signed a three-year, $165 million maximum contract extension, highlighting his commitment to the Lakers and their championship aspirations.
What challenges did the Lakers face heading into the playoffs?
The Lakers faced challenges due to injuries, particularly LeBron James' absence, which interrupted their dominant run as they approached the playoffs.
