The Los Angeles Lakers have completely transformed their roster this offseason.
Rui Hachimura is the latest player to depart, signing a two-year contract worth $28 million with the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday.
All of the starters from the Lakers’ Game 1 lineup in their first-round matchup against the Houston Rockets in the 2026 NBA Playoffs have officially been released.
Head coach JJ Redick adjusted the lineup for the series opener due to injuries to Austin Reeves and Luka Doncic. In Game 1 against the Rockets, he fielded a lineup of Luke Kennard, Marcus Smart, Rui Hachimura, LeBron James, and Deandre Ayton.
Surprisingly, the Lakers managed to beat Houston 107-98 with five starters who are no longer part of the team.
Los Angeles has experienced numerous player departures, but they’ve also made several moves in free agency. General manager Rob Pelinka seems to be feeling the heat to enhance the lineup, making multiple signings right at the start of the free agency period.
One notable addition is Walker Kessler, who signed a four-year deal valued at $130 million. While this is widely regarded as a steep price, it reflects Luka Doncic’s push for the Lakers to secure an elite rim protector.
Next season, guards Quentin Grimes and Collin Sexton, along with big man Sandro Mamukelashvili, will be joining the team. Despite the roster shakeup, there’s a prevailing belief that these changes may not be enough to position the Lakers as serious contenders.
After Ayton’s recent trade to the Washington Wizards, the Lakers’ priority needs remain a versatile wing defender and a backup center.
