But in addition, the Lakers do have a few critical players primed to enter free agency. The biggest name is veteran wing Dorian Finney-Smith, who has a player-option for $15.3 million for next year.

Noted LeBron James fan Shannon Sharpe feels the Lakers need to trade one of their most beloved stars in order to win the NBA championship.

Jones averaged 11 points on 41.8 percent shooting from deep in 2023-24, his last healthy season. He played only 20 games last season as injuries plagued New Orleans, although he is generally seen as the very best perimeter defender in the NBA.

The Los Angeles Lakers got younger when they swapped Anthony Davis for Luka Doncic, but make no mistake: they are still in the business of winning now.

A year ago, the Los Angeles Lakers seemed to be in a sort of malaise as a franchise. After a geyser of hope had emerged following their appearance in the Western Conference finals in 2023, they got run down in the first round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs in five games by the Denver Nuggets.

The Kobe Bryant and Gianna mural that Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Doncic donated to after being vandalized has been repainted.

By building an offer around Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, or Dalton Knecht, the Lakers can land a high-level player in the frontcourt who can catch lobs from Doncic and play defense on the other end. Potential names include Daniel Gafford, Jarrett Allen, and Nic Claxton. Or, they could also chase young players like Day'Ron Sharpe or Jericho Sims.

Apr 11, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) celebrates with center Jaxson Hayes (11), and guard Austin Reaves (15) after scoring against the Houston Rockets during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images / Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images