Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves assume leadership roles at Lakers Media Day

The Los Angeles Lakers held their Media Day in El Segundo, California, on September 28, 2026. Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves embraced new leadership responsibilities as centerpieces of a reshaped roster, especially with LeBron James now in Philadelphia. Both players expressed readiness for the challenge, with Dončić entering training camp without restrictions following a hamstring injury, and Reaves emphasizing personal growth and communication with teammates. Walker Kessler reported feeling fully recovered from shoulder surgery, which will be crucial as he looks to contribute significantly this season. The Lakers will begin practice Tuesday, focusing on teammate integration and establishing strategies under new coach JJ Redick.

• 1:04 AMYahoo Sports — Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves' leadership set tone at Lakers Media Day