The Los Angeles Lakers are finalizing their rotation for the 2026-27 NBA season after a 106-121 preseason loss to the Denver Nuggets on October 16. Head coach JJ Redick is evaluating a reshaped roster, with two starting spots and the entire bench rotation still up for grabs beyond the core of Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves, and Walker Kessler.
Luka Dončić is the undisputed offensive engine. His playmaking and scoring from anywhere on the floor will define the Lakers' attack. Austin Reaves is expected to start alongside him, forming a potent backcourt duo that can trade ball-handling duties. Quentin Grimes appears to have the inside track for a starting role, primarily to defend the opponent's top perimeter threat and cover for Dončić's defensive limitations.
Walker Kessler is the projected starting center, offering rim protection and rebounding. The final frontcourt spot remains a competition. Jarred Vanderbilt, Matisse Thybulle, and rookie Adou Thiero are all in the mix for their defensive versatility.
Collin Sexton is slated as the primary backup point guard, a scoring guard who fits Redick's desire for multiple creators. Jaden Hardy provides another shooting and scoring option off the bench. The wing and forward positions are crowded with defensive specialists like Thybulle and Ziaire Williams, plus energy players like Vanderbilt and Jake LaRavia.
Bronny James is viewed as a serviceable, unselfish role player who can defend. Rookies Chris Mañon and Cameron Carr are on two-way contracts and face a tougher path to regular minutes. With 16 players on standard deals, someone like Dalton Knecht could be the odd man out when rosters are finalized.
The Lakers' preseason has been a mixed bag, offering glimpses of both potential and areas for growth. They opened with a strong 127-103 win in Sacramento on October 5 but then fell 98-124 to Golden State the next day. A tight 114-110 victory over the Kings on October 8 was followed by an 89-101 loss to the Warriors on October 13. The most recent result, that 106-121 defeat in Denver, highlighted defensive challenges against elite competition.
These games have given Redick valuable film to assess his deep roster. The constant has been the offensive firepower provided by Dončić and Reaves when they share the floor.
The Lakers' immediate focus is their final preseason contest, a home game against the Golden State Warriors on October 21. It's one last chance for players on the bubble to make an impression before the regular season begins. Coach Redick will use this game to tighten his rotation and defensive schemes.
Finding the right combinations from a deep, versatile roster is Redick's biggest task. The goal is to build a cohesive unit that can compete in a loaded Western Conference. Fans can track the team's progress and view the full regular season schedule on our schedule page.
