The 5 keys that the Los Angeles Lakers must solve this summer
Pelinka has a lot of work ahead to finally give Luka Doncic a winning team: no more excuses
The elimination of Los Angeles Lakers in the playoffs exposed several deficiencies in a roster that, despite reaching 50 wins for the second consecutive season, remains far from the top contenders for the championship. The emergence of Luka Doncic as the new cornerstone of the project has raised expectations but has also increased the pressure on the front office to build a team ready to compete for the championship immediately.
The summer of 2026 presents itself as one of the most important in the last decade for the Los Angeles franchise. Rob Pelinka has salary cap space, draft picks, and multiple contractual decisions that will shape the future of the organization. Additionally, the continuity of some of its key figures will depend largely on the moves made in the coming weeks.
With LeBron James nearing the end of his career, Austin Reaves becoming one of the most sought-after pieces in the market, and Doncic demanding a roster capable of contending for the title from day one, the Lakers face a pivotal period. These are the five major issues they must address to take the next step.
1. Finding the ideal center for Luka Doncic
The Lakers' top priority seems clear. Since Luka Doncic joined the franchise, the Slovenian has insisted on the need to add a top-level center who can finish near the basket, run the fast break, and provide defensive protection. It is a profile that has historically maximized the performance of the point guard, as seen during his best years in Dallas.
The franchise has several options on the table, both in free agency and through trades. Names like Jalen Duren or Walker Kessler fit perfectly into that profile, although acquiring them will not be easy. Additionally, Los Angeles must decide what to do with Deandre Ayton and Jaxson Hayes, two players whose future remains uncertain and who could directly influence any moves to strengthen the frontcourt.
2. Resolving LeBron James' future
The continuity of LeBron James remains one of the big topics of the summer. At 41 years old, the NBA's all-time leading scorer has not yet made a definitive decision on whether he will play a twenty-fourth season in the league, although the general sentiment within the competition indicates he will return if he sees a real chance to compete for the championship.
The Lakers must convince him that the project remains competitive. Doncic's arrival has helped reduce the burden of responsibilities on James, something the star has welcomed. However, any signs of stagnation in roster building could open the door to other alternatives. Keeping LeBron satisfied involves demonstrating that the organization shares his ambition to win immediately.
3. Ensuring Austin Reaves' continuity
Austin Reaves faces the most important summer of his career. After having his best season yet, the shooting guard will become a free agent and will receive significant offers from several teams interested in his services. The Lakers consider retaining him a top priority and have an economic advantage over other franchises.
The issue is not only how much money Reaves would command but also how his new contract would affect the team's future flexibility. The Lakers must find a balance between rewarding one of their top players and maintaining enough flexibility to continue strengthening the team. His continuity seems likely, but reaching an appropriate agreement will be crucial for the organization's immediate future.
4. Succeeding in the free agent market
Beyond the stars, the Lakers need to surround Doncic with complementary players capable of addressing the weaknesses exposed in recent months. The lack of depth, physical size, and defensive specialists has been a recurring issue in crucial moments of the season.
As a result, the front office is analyzing very specific profiles. Defensive wings with the ability to shoot from the perimeter, big men capable of intimidating near the basket, and veterans with experience in crucial games are among the priorities. Success or failure in free agency could be the difference between a competitive team and a legitimate title contender.
5. Deciding what to do with the rest of the core
In addition to the big stars, the Lakers must make significant decisions regarding several players who were part of the rotation last season. Marcus Smart, Luke Kennard, and Rui Hachimura are some of the names causing more debate within the organization for various reasons.
The situation of Hachimura is particularly delicate. The Japanese forward had an excellent playoffs and could aspire to a significant contract in the market. The Lakers will have to assess whether it's worth making an economic effort to keep him or if it is more convenient to allocate their resources to other areas of the roster. Decisions about these players will determine the depth and balance of the team for the upcoming season.
This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Las 5 claves que deben resolver Los Angeles Lakers este verano
