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League: NBASport: BasketballCountry: United StatesCategory: Scores & Results

Lakers overhaul roster and target top-four finish in Western Conference

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 22, 2026, 5:52 AM

Last updated Sep 22, 2026

Lakers overhaul roster and target top-four finish in Western Conference
Summary

The Los Angeles Lakers have significantly restructured their roster, focusing on Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves as central figures. With LeBron James leaving, the team has added players like Walker Kessler and Quentin Grimes to improve scoring and depth. The Lakers aim for a top-four finish after completing last season at 53-29. However, questions remain about their defensive capabilities ahead of the 2026–27 NBA season, which has not started yet. Their success will largely depend on their ability to solidify defensive performance alongside effective offensive strategies.

Source Links
Yahoo Sports
By the Numbers
  • •Lakers focused on Doncic and Reaves after roster changes.
  • •Added Kessler, Grimes, and others to enhance depth.
  • •Team finished 53–29 last season, fourth in the West.
  • •Questions persist about the team's defensive strength.
  • •Upcoming season yet to begin as of September 21.
Latest Updates
  • 5:52 AMYahoo Sports — Podcast: Lakers Have a Real Path to the West's Top Four After Roster Overhaul
What they're saying
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Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves can keep the Lakers near the top of the West, but the defense still has plenty to prove.

Related Teams & Leagues
Los Angeles LakersNBABasketball

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