The Los Angeles Lakers will be a centerpiece of NBC Sports' 2026-27 NBA season, appearing a maximum 11 times across NBC, Peacock, and NBCSN. The team, led by LeBron James and Luka Dončić, will face elite competition in marquee matchups, including a Coast 2 Coast Tuesday showdown against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Last season, the Lakers fell 110-115 to the Thunder on May 12, 2026, and enter this season on a five-game losing streak (0W-0D-5L).
What’s new in the Lakers’ 2026-27 schedule?
NBC Sports’ expanded coverage includes seven Sunday Night Basketball doubleheaders, with the Lakers featured in high-profile games like Warriors-Lakers. The network also debuts a Presidents’ Day quadrupleheader on February 15, 2027, and a Coast 2 Coast Tuesday lineup featuring the Lakers-Thunder rematch. The Lakers’ 11 appearances tie them with the New York Knicks, San Antonio Spurs, and other elite teams for the most in the league.
Why this schedule matters for the Lakers
With LeBron James entering his 22nd NBA season and Luka Dončić leading a revamped roster, the Lakers will have ample opportunities to prove themselves against top contenders. The schedule includes historic rivalries (Lakers-Celtics) and playoff rematches (Lakers-Thunder), giving fans a chance to see how the team responds after last season’s late struggles. The Lakers’ recent form (LLLLL) adds urgency to these matchups.
Key matchups to watch
- Warriors-Lakers: A classic Western Conference battle featuring Stephen Curry vs. LeBron James. - Lakers-Thunder: A rematch of last season’s tight playoff series, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leading OKC. - Lakers-Celtics: A renewal of the NBA’s greatest rivalry, now on Coast 2 Coast Tuesday.
The Lakers’ 2026-27 campaign begins with a chance to rebound from their late-season slump. With a star-studded lineup and a prime-time schedule, they’ll have every opportunity to make a statement.
