Lakers position themselves for success following LeBron James departure
SB Nation • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 12:00 PM
Last updated Aug 20, 2026

The Lakers are expected to remain competitive in the NBA even after LeBron James' departure. Analysts suggest that the team has the potential to be a top-5 contender despite losing a prominent player. This shift may mark a new phase for the Lakers, prompting discussions about their roster adjustments and strategies moving forward.
- •Lakers aim for a top-5 team status following LeBron's exit.
- •The team's roster adjustments are under scrutiny.
- •Competitive of the NBA will be reshaped by this transition.
- 12:00 PMSB Nation — The Lakers won the breakup with LeBron James, and they will be better than the Sixers - SB Nation
"The Lakers have a chance to be a top-5 team even after losing LeBron James.
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