Lakers shake up roster: Doncic and LeBron lead new-look lineup for 2025-26

Los Angeles Lakers are setting their pieces in motion for the upcoming NBA season as they aim for greater relevance. Last year they finished third in the Western Conference with a 50-32 regular season record, only to bow out early in the first round of the playoffs at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Recapping the Lakers’ NBA trade moves

The most recent addition to the Californian lineup is Marcus Smart, who agreed to a release from the Washington Wizards. The 31-year-old guard signed a two-year, $11 million deal. Doncic played a key role in persuading him to join, reportedly reaching out personally to help seal the move.

Before Smart’s arrival, the team cut loose guard Shake Milton, who would otherwise have been guaranteed a $3 million contract for next season.

The Lakers’ reshuffle began with Jake LaRavia, who arrived from the Sacramento Kings in free agency on a two-year, $12 million contract. The second major signing was Deandre Ayton, joining from the Portland Trail Blazers with a deal worth $34 million.

Meanwhile, Jaxson Hayes returns after entering free agency at the end of last season – he secured a one-year contract for $3 million.

On the departures side, the first to leave during free agency was Dorian Finney-Smith, who signed a four-year, $53 million contract with the Houston Rockets.

While on the other side of the coin, the Lakers’ first loss during free agency was Dorian Finney-Smith, who reached an agreement with the Houston Rockets on a 4-year contract for $53 million.

Projected Lakers starting five for 2025

Here’s how the Lakers’ depth chart looks by position after their recent acquisitions:

PG: Luka Doncic, Marcus Smart, Gabe Vincent, Bronny James

SG: Austin Reaves, Jordan Goodwin, Dalton Knecht

PF: LeBron James, Jarred Vanderbilt

SF: Rui Hachimura, Jake LaRavia, Adou Thiero

C: Deandre Ayton, Maxi Kleber, Trey Jemison III, Christian Koloko, Jaxson Hayes

Which means the strongest starting lineup currently available is projected to be:

Luka Doncic – Austin Reaves – LeBron James – Rui Hachimura – Deandre Ayton

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