The Los Angeles Lakers' ambitious rebuild has drawn sharp criticism from NBA champion Channing Frye, who doubts their playoff viability. After losing their last five games (0W-0D-5L), including a recent 110-115 defeat to the Oklahoma City Thunder on 2026-05-12, Frye argues the team’s current construction lacks the speed and defensive intensity to compete in the Western Conference.
What’s Wrong With the Lakers’ Rebuild?
Frye, a former NBA champion, slammed the Lakers’ roster overhaul on the Road Trippin’ Show, calling the team “ploppy” and ill-suited for modern basketball. Despite adding eight new players, including athletic wings and frontcourt pieces, Frye believes the Lakers fail to replicate the balanced, high-energy system that propelled Luka Dončić and the 2024 Dallas Mavericks to the NBA Finals. “This team feels very half-court-set,” Frye said, questioning their ability to run in transition.
Why the Lakers Struggle to Match Dallas’ Success
The Lakers aimed to mirror the Mavericks’ 2024 Finals run by surrounding Dončić with defensive athletes and versatile scorers. However, Frye argues they lack the right mix. “Luka needs to be surrounded by defensive athletes,” he said, pointing to Dallas’ combination of athletic centers (Derek Lively, Daniel Gafford), 3-and-D forwards (P.J. Washington), and elite perimeter defenders (Derrick Jones Jr.). The Lakers, by contrast, lack a starting forward and have been linked with Jonathan Kuminga, but Frye remains skeptical.
What’s Next for the Lakers?
The Lakers’ recent struggles-five straight losses-highlight the urgency of their rebuild. Frye’s criticism underscores the need for more athleticism and defensive grit, especially against Western Conference powerhouses like Denver, Minnesota, and Oklahoma City. With the offseason approaching, the Lakers must address their roster gaps if they hope to contend in 2026-27.
