LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBUARY 10: LeBron James #23 and Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers talk during the third quarter of a game against the Utah Jazz at Crypto.com Arena on February 10, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.
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As the Los Angeles Lakers prepare for the 2025-2026 season,questions remain about how well their roster fits together,and whether they have enough depth.
Stars in Place – For Now
Luka Dončić recently signed a three-year extension worth $165 million, securing his future with the team. This allows the Lakers to focus on building a roster that complements his skills.
LeBron James and Austin Reaves are still key players, and they’re talented enough to fill the second and third roles. However, James’s long-term future in Los Angeles is uncertain.He’ll be an unrestricted free agent next summer, and he turns 41 in December, making a continued partnership with Dončić less likely.
Reaves is earning almost $14 million this season. Because of the league’s 140% extension limit, the Lakers likely can’t afford to extend his contract. He, too, is projected to be an unrestricted free agent next summer.