The Los Angeles Lakers have undergone a significant roster transformation this offseason, with all five starters from Game 1 of their first-round playoff series last season now having departed the team. Rui Hachimura became the latest player to leave, signing a two-year, $28 million deal with the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday.
The starting lineup for the Lakers' 2026 playoff opener against the Houston Rockets — LeBron James, Marcus Smart, Rui Hachimura, Luka Kennard, and Deandre Ayton — are all officially playing for new teams in the upcoming season. Head coach JJ Redick had deployed this lineup due to injuries to other key players, leading the Lakers to a 107-98 victory over Houston in that game.
Despite the departures, General Manager Rob Pelinka has been active in free agency, signing several new players. Walker Kessler joined the Lakers on a four-year, $130 million contract, a move seen as an effort to provide rim protection. Guards Quentin Grimes and Collin Sexton, along with big man Sandro Mamukelashvili, are also set to join the team for the 2026-27 season.
However, the extensive roster changes have not entirely satisfied team needs. The Lakers are still reportedly seeking a versatile wing defender and a backup center, especially after Deandre Ayton was traded to the Washington Wizards last week. Many observers believe that despite the flurry of signings, the Lakers have not done enough to position themselves as legitimate contenders for the upcoming season.