Los Angeles Lakers offseason recap, early 2026-27 season preview

Key Points:

• The Los Angeles Lakers underwent a major offseason transformation, including the departure of LeBron James and the acquisition of seven new players, with Luka Doncic now the clear focal point of the team.
• The Lakers traded multiple future draft picks to acquire 7-foot-2 center Walker Kessler, signaling a commitment to building a roster around Doncic and Austin Reaves, who signed a four-year, $180 million extension.
• Despite heavy roster turnover, experts question whether the Lakers have improved, citing a weak forward group, lack of backup center depth, and the challenge of replacing LeBron James' production.
• The team was sold for the second time in 14 months for $12.5 billion to venture capitalist Josh Kushner and former Disney CEO Bob Iger, marking a significant ownership change.
• Key player Quentin Grimes is expected to fill a crucial defensive role on the perimeter, while Luka Doncic is favored to contend for the regular-season MVP if he stays healthy and leads the Lakers to a top Western Conference finish.