Luka Leads Lakers; LeBron Out with Sciatica

The Los Angeles Lakers enter the 2025-26 season with Luka Dončić established as the franchise cornerstone after signing a long-term contract extension and arriving leaner and in MVP conversation. With LeBron James sidelined at the start by right-side sciatica and facing a possible long-term shift to a more complementary role, Dončić will lead the team early. Los Angeles added Deandre Ayton as a short-term center solution but could still pursue younger long-term frontcourt options such as Jalen Duren or Walker Kessler. Coach JJ Redick has stressed physical and mental sharpness after a first-round playoff exit, and the team struggled in the preseason (1–5). The Lakers open at Crypto.com Arena against the Golden State Warriors without James initially, keeping national attention on Los Angeles.