The Los Angeles Lakers are preparing for a critical offseason with front office plans signaling a high level of urgency.
According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, the franchise is expected to be “extremely aggressive” as it navigates LeBron James’ final year under contract.
Marks pointed to three primary factors shaping the team’s approach this summer: expiring contracts, frontcourt needs, and long-term planning beyond the LeBron era.
The Lakers possess approximately $60 million in expiring deals, including Gabe Vincent and Rui Hachimura, which could be used in trades to acquire immediate-impact players.
At the February trade deadline, the Lakers attempted to trade for Hornets center Mark Williams, a move that collapsed after the 7-footer failed his physical.
That pursuit suggests Los Angeles will again target a big man this summer using its remaining first-round pick.
The franchise also appears to be monitoring league-wide developments, especially concerning Luka Doncic, who becomes eligible for a contract extension on August 2.
Doncic, who was acquired from Dallas in a blockbuster February deal, is now viewed as the Lakers’ long-term centerpiece.
Balancing short-term competitiveness with future roster control remains a challenge, particularly as James turns 41 in December.
After hiring JJ Redick as head coach last summer, the Lakers opened the 2024–25 season strong, beginning 3–0 for the first time since 2010.
Despite a 50-win campaign, Los Angeles was eliminated in the first round by Minnesota, its second consecutive early playoff exit.
The team clinched the Pacific Division title for the first time since 2020 but failed to convert regular season momentum into a deep postseason run.
Pressure is now mounting on Lakers management to maximize the current window while positioning the roster for long-term viability.
As LeBron’s potential final season with the franchise approaches, the Lakers are expected to operate with urgency as they shape their 2025–26 roster.
