LeBron James has been here and has now moved on.
The era of Luka Doncic has officially commenced.
Doncic’s initial half-season with the team was challenging, as he arrived in Los Angeles after recovering from a calf strain and was adjusting to the recent trade. The following season showed notable improvement, as he led the league in scoring; however, a hamstring injury in April prevented a playoff appearance. With LeBron James now playing in Philadelphia, the Lakers are clearly focused on Doncic as the team’s leader, and it will be his responsibility to guide the team forward.
Thybulle is considered the Lakers’ most valuable bench player. He was one of the most underrated free agents this summer following a solid and consistent performance in Portland. His defensive prowess and ability to hit open three-pointers—averaging 41% over the past two seasons in 45 games—make him a key addition, particularly given the playmaking of Luka Doncic.
Erik Spoelstra Appointed as Head Coach of the 2025-2028 USA Basketball Men’s National Team
Luka Doncic’s average of 33.5 points per game contributed to the Lakers achieving the league’s No. 10 offensive rating, with an average of 117.0 points per 100 possessions (Denver ranked first at 121.2). Coach JJ Redick anticipates this level of performance will continue. Austin Reaves, coming off a career-best of 23.3 points per game, is back as Doncic’s primary teammate, complemented by the significant presence of 7-foot-2 lob threat Walker Kessler, who effectively anchors the middle.
Kessler is considered one of the most significant X factors in the NBA this season, following his team’s substantial investment through a sign-and-trade deal involving both financial resources and draft capital. Throughout his career, he ranks third among players with at least 500 shots defended—trailing only Chet Holmgren and Victor Wembanyama—by limiting opponents to a 54.6% field goal percentage in the restricted area when he is the closest defender, according to GeniusIQ.
Kessler averaged 12.2 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game while shooting 66.3% from the field during the 2024-25 season. These statistics, accumulated over 58 games, offer a more comprehensive view of his potential compared to last season’s five-game sample. Playing alongside Doncic is also expected to enhance his overall efficiency. Kessler is a valuable target for rebounds and shot-blocking contributions, although his free throw performance continues to be a limiting factor.
It is anticipated that the Lakers will qualify for the playoffs with approximately 46 wins.
Photo/LosAngelesLakers/X
