The Los Angeles Lakers are entering a new era of the franchise following the departure of LeBron James and a second ownership change in 14 months. The team has revamped its roster around Luka Doncic, who is set to lead the Lakers in their quest for a championship, their first since 2020.
Doncic is stepping into the spotlight as the undisputed leader of the Lakers. This offseason, he hosted a minicamp in his native Slovenia for his teammates, an effort to build chemistry and demonstrate his commitment to the role. Last season, Doncic led the league in scoring with 33.5 points per game and finished third in assists with 8.3, before a hamstring injury sidelined him for the playoffs. He is expected to carry a significant load for the team as they aim for a deep postseason run.
Joining Doncic as a key figure is Austin Reaves, who signed a record-breaking contract for an undrafted player. Reaves, described as Doncic's "sidekick," has demonstrated star potential with multiple high-scoring performances last season, including a 51-point outing. Expectations are high for Reaves, who has transitioned from a league surprise to a potential All-Star and a torchbearer for the franchise.
Another significant acquisition is center Walker Kessler, whom Doncic specifically requested. The Lakers made a substantial investment in Kessler, trading unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, along with first-round swaps in 2028 and 2030, and signing him to a four-year, $130 million contract. Kessler, known for his shot-blocking and rebounding abilities, expressed his commitment to the team, stating, "I'm going to run through a brick wall for them." The Lakers are relying on Kessler to develop into a superstar to bolster their chances in the competitive Western Conference.
The team also has new ownership at the helm. Bob Iger, former CEO of Disney, and venture capitalist Josh Kushner have acquired the Lakers from Mark Walter. This transition follows a period of questions surrounding the team, partly due to a federal law enforcement probe into Walter's financial dealings. Iger and Kushner are looking to make their mark on the franchise, and there is optimism that their plans will lead to improved performance.
Despite the offseason drama, including James' departure and the ownership change, the Lakers continue to command significant attention. The team's high profile and the anticipated storylines of the upcoming season suggest it will be a captivating year for the NBA.