As the first-round loss to Minnesota showed, L.A. needs a deeper roster with more size. But the team lacks salary room and draft assets.

Was this the Lakers wake-up call moment? The Los Angeles Lakers entered the 2025 NBA Playoffs with high expectations, boasting a revamped roster featuring LeBron James and Luka Dončić.

The Los Angeles Lakers’ blockbuster trade for Luka Dončić was meant to spark a title run—but internal tensions, injuries, and defensive lapses have left the team reeling and critics pointing fingers at LeBron James.