Lakers Expect Championship Contention in 2026-27 Season

The Los Angeles Lakers are openly embracing their status as a title-contending team for the 2026-27 NBA season. Following a significant offseason overhaul, the franchise is not shying away from the high expectations that come with its storied history.

This confidence stems not only from the team's 17 championship banners but also from the belief in the current roster construction. Head coach JJ Redick has expressed optimism about the team's ability to compete, particularly with the integration of Luka Doncic, star guard Austin Reaves, and new free-agency acquisition Walker Kessler.

Despite an external narrative that questions their readiness to contend with top Western Conference teams, the Lakers organization believes their recent moves position them for success. Rob Pelinka, Lakers' president of basketball operations and general manager, stated the team is on "the path of being a really competitive championship-level team," while also acknowledging that building such a roster is an ongoing endeavor.

Redick echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the pursuit of a championship is a collective effort. "I’m confident we’re gonna develop as a team into a championship-level team this year," he said. This belief is shared by the team's most critical players.

Luka Doncic, who has previously led his former team to the NBA Finals and is aiming for his first MVP award, has made it clear that team success takes precedence. "First is [the] team, then [the] individual," Doncic stated, underscoring his commitment to winning a championship.

He added, "I mean, realistically, I would say championship. If that’s not your goal, I don’t know what you’re doing here. As an individual, MVP, obviously I would like to have that one day. But that [doesn’t] come if the team’s not good."

Doncic's desire for a deep playoff run is fueled by past experiences, including an injury that sidelined him for the Lakers' playoff games in the spring of 2026, and a first-round exit in the 2025 playoffs shortly after his acquisition.

Walker Kessler also expressed strong belief in the team's potential. "We definitely could be a contender," Kessler said. "Undoubtedly. We have a lot of great tools and a lot of versatility. The guys are already getting along. Connection makes championship teams."

The team's optimism is bolstered by the addition of wing depth, with players such as Quentin Grimes, Ziaire Williams, Jake LaRavia, Matisse Thybulle, Adou Thiero, and Cameron Carr expected to complement the core players and enhance the team's defense. The Lakers are focused on translating this potential into performance throughout the upcoming season.