Derek Fisher projects 45 to 50 wins for Lakers with Luka Doncic
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 7, 2026, 10:21 AM
Last updated Sep 7, 2026
Former Los Angeles Lakers player and head coach Derek Fisher expects the team to record between 45 and 50 wins in the 2026–2027 NBA season. Fisher highlighted the backcourt duo of Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves as a consistent threat, while also citing the defensive potential of teammate Walker Kessler. These expectations follow an active offseason that saw the departure of LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, Marcus Smart, and Jaxson Hayes. Despite the significant turnover in the roster, Fisher expressed confidence in the team’s ability to remain competitive. He noted that while Doncic has yet to capture an NBA championship, his recent performance improvements on the defensive end suggest a higher ceiling for the team. The Lakers now focus on building team chemistry early in the regular season to adapt to the new personnel.
- •Derek Fisher projects the Lakers to finish with 45 to 50 regular season wins.
- •Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves are identified as the primary backcourt rotation.
- •Walker Kessler joins the team as a developing defensive and rebounding option.
- •The Lakers must integrate a new roster after several departures in free agency.
- 10:21 AMYahoo Sports — Luka Doncic Backed to Lead Lakers to 50 Wins as Former NBA Coach Makes Bold Playoff Prediction
"With LeBron James gone, Luka Doncic and the Los Angeles Lakers are facing new challenges. There are doubts about the Lakers’ potential in the 2026–2027 season given the new era and No. 1 player. Most fans want to see the Lakers reach the postseason. However, the team has a new group. Not only did James [...]
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