The Lakers have unveiled their schedule for the 2026-27 season, which includes some notable highlights. They’re facing their longest road trip during the Grammy Awards swing in late January to early February, as well as a significant homestand that consists of three separate five-game series in December, March, and April. Plus, there’s a scheduled break in the competition.
In addition, fans can look forward to a high-stakes game featuring Luka Doncic, who will be leading a restructured team centered around his talents.
Let’s take a glance at some key matchups the Lakers and Doncic are expected to be part of during the upcoming season.
October 21: vs. Warriors in Los Angeles
Come October, Doncic will have been with the Lakers for 20 months, marking his journey with the team.
This particular Opening Day will be significant – the first one since 2017 without the iconic LeBron James on the roster, marking a new chapter for the Doncic-led Lakers.
October 25th: At Jazz in Salt Lake City
This game isn’t just about the Lakers and Doncic; it’s an event for center Walker Kessler, who will be facing his former team for the first time since being traded from the Jazz to the Lakers.
Kessler, drafted at No. 22 in 2022, spent his initial four NBA seasons in Utah before moving to Los Angeles as a restricted free agent.
Nov. 27: At Spurs in San Antonio
The Lakers will play the defending Western Conference champions, with this match set to be the first of three encounters.
Additionally, it features a face-off between Doncic and the promising Victor Wembanyama, the French sensation who was recently named the Defensive Player of the Year and finished in the top four of MVP voting last season.
Dec. 16 and Dec. 18: At the Minnesota Timberwolves
This represents the start of a two-game series between the Lakers and Timberwolves, both of whom have undergone significant changes this offseason.
With star players like Anthony Edwards, Rudy Gobert, and newly acquired LaMelo Ball, the Timberwolves will be a formidable opponent. It should give both teams a good indication of where they stand in the Western Conference.
December 25: vs. 76ers in Los Angeles
Christmas games draw a lot of eyes, and this one is particularly noteworthy. It will be LeBron James’ first game back at Crypto.com Arena since leaving the Lakers, raising anticipation about how fans will receive him. His legacy in Los Angeles is complicated, bringing both a championship and mixed feelings.
January 7: vs. Celtics in Los Angeles
Even if the Celtics seem to have taken a step back after trading key players, the rivalry between these two historic franchises is undeniable, ensuring this matchup will always hold a special place in fans’ hearts.
Doncic will be eager to secure his first win against the Celtics since joining the Lakers, which could be quite meaningful for his reputation within the team.
January 26th: vs. Thunder in Los Angeles
After a dominating performance against the Lakers last season, the Thunder will serve as a significant test for Doncic and the revamped team in the latter half of the season.
January 30th: At the Knicks in New York
The annual Lakers vs. Knicks matchup has long been a highlight for basketball fans, especially when LeBron was in the mix. Now, Doncic takes center stage against the reigning NBA champions.
February 28: At the Mavericks in Dallas
Taking on the Mavericks in Dallas has become less emotionally charged for Doncic as time goes on, though it certainly was intense after his trade to the Lakers. This marks his third duel with his former team since that pivotal moment.
Luka and star guard Austin Reaves had missed a previous visit to Dallas due to injuries, so this game might hold extra significance for them.
