Lakers turn the page on LeBron James and their new starting five suddenly looks very different

• The Los Angeles Lakers officially unveiled their 21 player training camp roster ahead of media day.

• Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves spearhead the franchise’s new chapter following LeBron James’ departure to Philadelphia.

• Preseason action begins October 5 against Sacramento before the October 21 regular season opener.

The Los Angeles Lakers have officially launched their preparations for the upcoming NBA season, signaling a profound structural transformation within the organization. Speaking at the UCLA Health Training Center during annual media day proceedings, head coach JJ Redick and general manager Rob Pelinka introduced the team’s official training camp roster. The announcement formally transitions the iconic franchise into a new era, moving past the LeBron James chapter and placing superstar guard Luka Doncic at the center of the team’s championship aspirations.

Lakers officially announce the training camp roster ahead of media day: pic.twitter.com/3y0Nw06WL1

— Ryan Ward (@RyanWardLA) September 28, 2026

Roster modifications and final training camp additions

The preliminary roster features 21 players participating in preseason workouts, a figure that must be trimmed down to 15 guaranteed contracts prior to the opening night tipoff. Last minute adjustments to the training camp squad include the additions of William Kyle III and familiar forward Cole Swider. To accommodate these moves, the front office waived Meechie Johnson and Chase Ross, establishing a competitive environment as supporting players look to complement core contributors like Austin Reaves and the summer additions.

Preseason schedule and tactical preparation

Preseason action for the Purple and Gold kicks off on October 5 with a road matchup against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center. The Lakers’ preseason slate consists of five games against three Western Conference opponents, featuring two matchups against Sacramento, two against the Golden State Warriors and a final tune up on October 16 against the Denver Nuggets at Crypto.com Arena. This condensed schedule will allow coach Redick to refine new tactical rotations and build chemistry ahead of the grueling regular season.

 

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Una publicación compartida por Los Angeles Lakers (@lakers)

Opening night and the dawn of the Doncic era

The regular season officially starts for Los Angeles on October 21, when they host Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors at home. Notably, for the first time since 2018, the Lakers will not feature on the NBA’s opening night broadcast on October 20, a slate that highlights LeBron James making his official debut with the Philadelphia 76ers against the New York Knicks. As the spotlight shifts to Crypto.com Arena the following evening, the Lakers begin a highly anticipated journey under Luka Doncic’s leadership.

Cover photos from: @lakers