Derek Fisher evaluates Lakers roster outlook against Western Conference leaders

Former Los Angeles Lakers guard Derek Fisher expressed doubts regarding the team's ability to compete with the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs during the upcoming season. Fisher highlighted defensive concerns and a lack of depth at the power forward position as primary challenges for a roster undergoing significant changes. The Lakers finished the 2025-26 season with a 53-29 record but struggled against the Western Conference elite, going 0-4 against the Thunder and 1-3 against the Spurs. While the team added center Walker Kessler, analysts remain skeptical about the defensive capabilities of the backcourt, including Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. With the search for a permanent starter at the four-spot continuing, the front office faces personnel gaps that remain unaddressed following the departure of prospective targets to other teams. The Thunder and Spurs remain the projected favorites in the West entering the 2026-27 campaign.

• 4:34 PMYahoo Sports — Lakers Get Brutal Reality Check From Derek Fisher With OKC Thunder, Spurs Comparison