The Los Angeles Lakers are entering a new era as Austin Reaves moves forward without LeBron James, who has departed the franchise ahead of his 24th NBA season. Reaves, who recently signed a four-year, $180-million contract—the largest ever for an undrafted player—will now serve as a primary leader alongside Luka Doncic for a significantly overhauled roster.
The Post-LeBron Transition for Austin Reaves
For Austin Reaves, the departure of LeBron James represents a major shift in his professional environment. Since joining the team in 2021, Reaves had been mentored by James, a dynamic he described as “all I’ve ever known.” According to comments made by Reaves during a Monday news conference, he was stunned by the news while playing golf in Lake Tahoe and is still processing the change. Despite the separation, Reaves maintains a positive outlook, stating he has “nothing but love and respect” for his former teammate.
Pro Tip: Building team chemistry is often about shared experiences off the court. Reaves notes that he and Luka Doncic, his new co-leader, maintain a close bond by talking daily and sharing golf tips, which may prove vital as the Lakers integrate eight new roster additions.
Lakers Roster Overhaul and Strategic Acquisitions
The Lakers have undergone a comprehensive transformation, with all players who started in the previous spring’s playoffs no longer with the team. Following the signing of forward Ziaire Williams, the organization now features eight new players acquired via free agency, trades, or the draft. A key centerpiece of this strategy is 7-foot-2 center Walker Kessler, acquired in a trade with the Utah Jazz.
Kessler, who signed a four-year, $130-million deal, is expected to provide rim protection and serve as a lob threat. The acquisition came at a significant cost: the Lakers traded two unprotected first-round picks (2031 and 2033) and two first-round pick swaps (2028 and 2030). Kessler, recovering from shoulder surgery, expressed his commitment to the organization, noting that the heavy investment in his potential motivates him to “run through a brick wall” for the team.
New Signings and the “Mamba Mentality” Influence
The team’s culture is being reshaped by newcomers like Sandro Mamukelashvili and Collin Sexton. Mamukelashvili, who signed a four-year, $52-million contract, brings an appreciation for franchise history, evidenced by a tattoo of Kobe Bryant’s No. 24 on his leg. He averaged 11.2 points last season while shooting 38.9% from three-point range, providing the floor spacing the new-look Lakers require.
Meanwhile, guard Collin Sexton finds himself in a familiar, if ironic, position. Having been drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers just as James left for Los Angeles in 2018, Sexton signed with the Lakers this month only for James to depart again. “He’s just leaving every time I arrive,” Sexton said, laughing. Despite the timing, Sexton is eager to work under coach JJ Redick, noting that he welcomes a coach who will be “yelling and screaming” to get the best performance out of him.
Did you know? Austin Reaves’ $180-million contract is the richest deal in the history of the NBA for an undrafted player, signaling a shift in how teams value developmental success stories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the new leaders of the Lakers?
Following the departure of LeBron James, Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic are expected to step into the de facto leadership roles for the team.
What did the Lakers give up to acquire Walker Kessler?
The Lakers traded two unprotected first-round picks (2031 and 2033) and two first-round pick swaps (2028 and 2030) to the Utah Jazz to secure Kessler.
How many new players have joined the Lakers?
As of the signing of Ziaire Williams, the Lakers have added eight new players to their roster compared to the group that competed in the playoffs last spring.
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