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Lakers plan for LeBron James' replacement with Ziaire Williams

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 5, 2026, 2:03 AM

Last updated Oct 5, 2026

Lakers plan for LeBron James' replacement with Ziaire Williams

Summary

The Los Angeles Lakers are assessing their lineup following the expected departure of LeBron James. Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and Walker Kessler are confirmed as starters, with Ziaire Williams likely stepping into a significant role. Williams, a former Brooklyn Nets forward, signed a one-year deal as a low-risk acquisition, expected to fill a forward spot. The Lakers are also exploring options to find a player who can replicate James' impact. This approach reflects the team's effort to maintain competitiveness in the absence of their star player.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and Walker Kessler confirmed as starters.
•Ziaire Williams likely to replace LeBron James in the lineup.
•Williams signed a one-year deal as a low-risk addition.
•Lakers exploring further options to mirror James' role.
•Williams played 56 games for the Nets last season.

Latest Updates

2:03 AMYahoo Sports — Lakers Expected to Replace LeBron James With Exciting Young 6’10” Wing

What they're saying

"
How JJ Redick sets up the Los Angeles Lakers will be up to him, but there is already a general idea of what to expect. The main core of Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler is primed to start. That is just three of five starting spots confirmed.Doncic and Reaves are likely to be […] The post Lakers Expected to Replace LeBron James With Exciting Young 6’10” Wing appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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