Lakers Reshape Roster With Doncic, LeBron Ahead 2025 Season

The Los Angeles Lakers are actively reshaping their roster in the 2025 offseason to build around their superstar duo of LeBron James and Luka Doncic, who was acquired in a significant February trade that sent Anthony Davis and a future first-round pick to Dallas. Their front office, led by president Rob Pelinka, is prioritizing adding size and frontcourt depth, particularly at the center position, as they pursue younger, cost-effective options like Utah's Walker Kessler and Detroit's Jalen Duren, after Dallas extended Daniel Gafford, removing him from trade consideration. Several potential trade targets, including Andrew Wiggins, Derrick Jones Jr., and Royce O'Neale, are being evaluated, while some names like Jrue Holiday and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope are unlikely acquisitions due to recent trades and team intentions. The Lakers do not have a first-round draft pick this year but hold a late second-round pick, with expectations focused on trades and free agency to improve the roster rather than immediate draft impact. Ownership changes, including a sale to Dodgers owner Mark Walter, and Pelinka's promotion to president of basketball operations, signal organizational shifts aiming to return the Lakers to championship contention after consecutive first-round playoff exits. These roster moves and strategic decisions have also elevated the Lakers' standing among NBA title contenders in betting markets, reflecting heightened expectations for the coming seasons.