Despite giving their all, the Los Angeles Lakers were swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the playoffs, ending their season at the hands of the defending champions. Considering the roster challenges and injuries, the Lakers’ performance this year has actually exceeded expectations. They secured home-court advantage in the first round and, even after Luka Dončić went down with an injury, managed to advance past the first round. Although they were swept by the Thunder, their overall effort and results deserve praise.
However, the Lakers are facing a major roster overhaul this summer. With a total of nine players set to become free agents, their futures with the team are uncertain. Even if the Lakers let some of them go, it remains an open question whether they can replace their production and impact with similar or cheaper contracts. LeBron James, despite being 41 years old, still plays at an All-Star level. If James had underperformed, the Lakers might not have even made it past the first round, let alone challenged the Thunder. But with his contract expiring this summer, his future—whether he stays, leaves, or even retires—is anyone’s guess.
Beyond James, the Lakers’ most critical decision involves forward Rui Hachimura. His breakout performance in the playoffs was a key factor, even in the series loss to the Thunder. In Game 4, Hachimura scored 25 points and grabbed 5 rebounds, briefly keeping the Lakers alive. Furthermore, Hachimura led the league in one statistic during the playoffs: according to tracking data, he shot 70% on open three-point attempts, the highest among all players. And he took a significant number of those shots, making him a crucial perimeter threat for the Lakers. With his value rising, retaining him will not be easy.
Another shooter, Luke Kennard, who was acquired mid-season, also played a valuable role. After Dončić was sidelined for the playoffs, the Lakers gave Kennard more ball-handling and playmaking responsibilities, and he delivered. However, Kennard’s contract also expires this summer. Given that he was earning around $10 million annually and his playoff performance suggests he can command at least a similar salary, the Lakers face a tough decision.
Additionally, Maxi Kleber, Timmy, and Mannon will also become free agents. As bench or end-of-rotation players, their situations are less critical but still need consideration. A key wildcard is backup center Jaxson Hayes, who will also hit free agency. Hayes has spent three seasons with the Lakers on minimum contracts, but his ability to finish at the rim and his athleticism should attract decent offers from other teams.
While Austin Reaves had ups and downs in the playoffs, from every angle, even if he declines his player option, a return to the Lakers seems likely. So I haven’t included him in the count. On the other hand, Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart hold player options and are clearly using the Lakers as a stepping stone. Their strong playoff performances make it highly unlikely they will pick up those options. The only question is whether their next contracts will come from the Lakers or elsewhere.
