League: NBA Sport: Basketball Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Lakers project to finish 45-37 in upcoming NBA season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 24, 2026, 3:34 AM

Last updated Sep 24, 2026

Lakers project to finish 45-37 in upcoming NBA season

Summary

The Los Angeles Lakers received an unfavorable projection from ESPN, forecasting a 45-37 finish for the upcoming NBA season. This figure marks a significant decline from last season's 53 wins and 50 the year prior. Despite offseason acquisitions aimed at improving their defense and shooting, the Lakers are expected to be a play-in team, likely placing sixth in the Western Conference behind more successful franchises. The departure of LeBron James is noted as a pivotal factor in the team's projected performance, with Luka Doncic now tasked with leading the Lakers.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•ESPN predicts Lakers will finish 45-37, down from 53 wins last season.
•Lakers' offseason included key additions to bolster defense and shooting.
•Without LeBron James, the Lakers are expected to struggle for a top-six finish.
•Luka Doncic is highlighted as a critical player for the team's success.
•Former NBA champion Iman Shumpert expects Lakers to be a play-in team.

Latest Updates

3:34 AMYahoo Sports — Lakers Get Shockingly Bad News Days Before Season Tip Off

What they're saying

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In its updated win/loss projections, ESPN forecasts the Lakers to finish 45-37, down from 53 wins last season and 50 the year before. The post Lakers Get Shockingly Bad News Days Before Season Tip Off appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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