Can the Los Angeles Lakers Win It All After a Massive Roster Overhaul?

The Los Angeles Lakers are a team in transition, having undergone a significant transformation this offseason. Despite retaining their franchise cornerstone, Luka Doncic, the team has lost several key players, including LeBron James. The question on everyone's mind is: can the Lakers still be considered championship contenders?

What Happened?

The Lakers' roster overhaul was a surprise to many, with almost all of their rotational players leaving in free agency. The team's president of basketball operations, Rob Pelinka, has been busy acquiring new talent to fill the void. One of the key signings is Walker Kessler, who was acquired via a sign-and-trade from the Utah Jazz worth four years, $130 million. Kessler is the perfect fit next to playmakers like Doncic and Reaves, who both love to get their big men involved in the pick-and-roll.

Why It Matters for Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers' new signings and trades aim to bolster their chances of making a deep playoff run. Quentin Grimes was signed to a four-year, $60 million contract to add backcourt and wing defense/shooting. Sandro Mamukelashvili was added on a four-year, $52 million deal for frontcourt depth and versatility. Collin Sexton was signed on a two-year, $19 million contract to supply explosive bench scoring. Matisse Thybulle was signed on a one-year deal to bolster perimeter defense. Jaden Hardy was acquired via trade from Washington. Ziaire Williams was signed on a free agent contract. Kevon Looney was brought in as a veteran presence. Cameron Carr was drafted as a high-upside wing with the 25th pick.

What Comes Next?

The Lakers' projected starting lineup consists of Doncic, Reaves, Grimes, Mamukelashvili, and Kessler. While this lineup is good, it's not up to par with the top teams in the West. The Oklahoma City Thunder's lineup of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Cason Wallace, Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren, and Isaiah Hartenstein is certainly better and has more experience playing with each other. The San Antonio Spurs lineup of De'Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, Devin Vassell, Julian Champagnie, and Victor Wembanyama is also superior. Most teams in the league don't have a better starting five than the Spurs.

Recent Form

The Lakers have struggled in their recent games, losing their last five matches. Their last result was a 110-115 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on May 12, 2026. Recent form (last 5): 0W-0D-5L (LLLLL, most recent first); lost the last 5.

The Lakers' championship aspirations are uncertain, but they have the potential to make a deep playoff run. With their new signings and trades, they aim to overcome the loss of key players and make a push for the title. Only time will tell if they can achieve their goal.