The Los Angeles Lakers’ playoff journey ended abruptly with a disappointing 4-1 first-round elimination at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves.
As the dust settles on their season, all eyes now turn to Luka Doncic, the midseason acquisition who joined the roster in February.
The current team configuration wasn’t built with Doncic as its centerpiece, but that reality appears poised to change.
Management now faces the critical task of rebuilding around their newly acquired star.
Following their premature playoff exit, the Lakers approach a summer filled with pivotal decisions – a fact analyst Trevor Lane emphasized in his recent assessment.
Lane described the upcoming months as a “BIG summer ahead” while highlighting several priorities: “Find centers,” “Add athleticism/defense,” “Be aggressive on trade market,” “Luka’s extension,” “LeBron’s contract,” and “DFS extension/player option.”
Tough way to finish the season for the Lakers. BIG summer ahead. Priorities:
-Find centers
-Add athleticism/defense
-Be aggressive on trade market
-Luka’s extension
-LeBron’s contract
-DFS extension/player option— Trevor Lane (@Trevor_Lane) May 1, 2025
With championship aspirations hanging in the balance, the Lakers need to navigate these waters carefully yet boldly.
Their immediate focus likely centers on keeping key players from hitting free agency while exploring potential trade opportunities.
LeBron James holds significant leverage with his $52.7 million player option for the upcoming season—a decision that will ripple throughout the organization.
Doncic remains under contract for two more seasons but could potentially test free agency in 2026.
Dorian Finney-Smith seems likely to stay with the team, either by exercising his player option or negotiating a new agreement. Rui Hachimura demonstrated consistent value throughout the season, seemingly securing his role moving forward.
Gabe Vincent’s uneven performance might prompt the team to seek upgrades at his position. Jaxson Hayes fulfilled his backup duties adequately, though coaches appeared hesitant to rely on him in crucial moments.
Jarred Vanderbilt remains a valued contributor whom the Lakers appear to prize more on the court than as a trade chip.
With 50 wins and a third-place finish in the Western Conference, the foundation exists, but targeted improvements could elevate this group to true contender status.
NEXT: Anthony Edwards Joins Elite Postseason Company After Series Win Against Lakers
