Los Angeles, August 4, 2025

News Summary

The Los Angeles Lakers are restructuring their roster around Luka Dončić as LeBron James enters his final contract year. After acquiring Dončić in a trade, the Lakers are making strategic moves to enhance their team dynamics. Last season’s positive performance with both players has set optimistic expectations. With new signings like DeAndre Ayton and Marcus Smart, the Lakers are positioning themselves for a pivotal season focused on Dončić’s development as the franchise’s future star. As James’s tenure in Los Angeles may conclude, the team is preparing for a new era.

Los Angeles

The Los Angeles Lakers have shifted their focus from LeBron James to Luka Dončić as they enter a pivotal season for the franchise. With James in what is projected to be his final season, the Lakers are making roster changes centered around Dončić, who was acquired via trade from the Dallas Mavericks earlier this year.

Last season, the Lakers achieved a record of 15-8 with both players in the starting lineup, prompting optimistic expectations for their upcoming season. James, who joined the Lakers in July 2018, was originally brought on board to enhance the team’s chances of capturing more championship titles. Last season, he averaged 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game, resulting in his 21st All-Star selection. He also finished sixth in MVP voting and was honored with a spot on the All-NBA Second Team.

As they approach the new season, questions around the team’s improvement trajectory are now centered around whether they have accomplished enough for Dončić, who is viewed as crucial to their future. Dončić, a five-time All-NBA selection and last season’s scoring leader, has undergone a physical transformation, appearing stronger and leaner. His proactive approach comes with the anticipation of elevated performance after returning from international play with the Slovenian national team.

New Additions and Retentions

To fortify the squad, the Lakers have made significant roster moves during the offseason. DeAndre Ayton was signed following a buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers to bolster the frontcourt. Additionally, Marcus Smart, a former Kia Defensive Player of the Year, was acquired, notable for his recruitment efforts directed at Dončić to enhance the team’s prospects. Key players from last season, including Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Gabe Vincent, were also retained, helping to solidify the Lakers’ roster depth.

Strategic Focus and Transition

The overarching strategy of the Lakers now reflects a shift towards building a team around Dončić while simultaneously supporting James in his final contract year. The team’s general manager, Rob Pelinka, has referred to Dončić’s three-year contract extension as a historic moment for the organization. Meanwhile, LeBron opted into his player option for $52.6 million for the 2025-26 season, marking his unprecedented 23rd season in the NBA.

However, there is growing speculation surrounding the future of James with the Lakers, suggesting that the team is subtly transitioning its focus away from him. This shift may signal a planned end to LeBron’s era in Los Angeles, paving the way for Dončić to emerge as the franchise’s new marquee player. Sources indicate that James reached out to Dončić to extend his congratulations following the signing of the contract extension, reflecting a respectful relationship, even as the franchise steps into a new chapter.

Press Conference Context

A press conference was held by the Lakers to formally announce Dončić’s contract extension, attended by many of his teammates, though LeBron was notably absent, reportedly spending time on the golf course. It was later revealed that James congratulated Dončić via FaceTime on the same day as the signing, suggesting that while the focus shifts, the connection between the two remains intact.

In summary, the Lakers are reconfiguring their organization with a clear intention to build around Luka Dončić while managing the final stages of LeBron James’ storied career. As the upcoming 2025-26 season approaches, NBA enthusiasts will be closely watching how these changes will unfold.

FAQ

Key Features Chart

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• Bleacher Report
• Wikipedia: Luka Dončić
• SI
• Google Search: Luka Dončić NBA
• New York Post
• Encyclopedia Britannica: LeBron James

Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER

PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.