Los Angeles Lakers roster changes define their 2026-27 season outlook

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 11, 2026, 1:00 PM

Last updated Sep 11, 2026

Los Angeles Lakers roster changes define their 2026-27 season outlook
Summary

The Los Angeles Lakers enter the 2026-27 NBA season with a significantly altered roster following an offseason of major personnel shifts. After the departure of LeBron James to the Philadelphia 76ers and the exits of several veterans, the franchise has shifted away from its previous two-timeline strategy. New acquisitions include Walker Kessler, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Quentin Grimes, Collin Sexton, and Kevon Looney. These moves accompany the re-signing of Luka Doncic, who missed the entirety of the 2026 postseason due to injury. Despite these additions, former Lakers guard Danny Green suggested the team may face challenges in the playoffs due to the roster's relative youth and lack of collective postseason experience. The front office remains focused on integrating these new players as the organization aims to build a competitive squad for the coming campaign.

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By the Numbers
  • LeBron James left the Lakers to join the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency.
  • Luka Doncic signed a three-year deal to remain with Los Angeles.
  • The Lakers acquired Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz in a sign-and-trade.
  • DeAndre Ayton was traded to the Washington Wizards for Jaden Hardy.
  • The Lakers lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2026 Western Conference playoffs.
Latest Updates
  • 1:00 PMYahoo SportsThe New-Look Lakers Have A Promising Outlook In A Competitive Western Conference
What they're saying
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Compared to the 2025-26 season, the Los Angeles Lakers look like a completely different team. Their roster from the previous year was led by all-time great Luka Doncic, with a bigger offensive role for Austin Reaves and a 41-year-old LeBron James. That Lakers roster was far from perfect. Not only were the Lakers a top-heavy …

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