The Lakers are prioritizing roster depth over star acquisition in their offseason changes

The extensive report reveals the Lakers are focusing on improving their roster in the offseason, prioritizing supporting cast upgrades over star acquisitions, revealing a shift in strategy under the leadership of general manager Rob Pelinka.

By the numbers

• The Lakers finished last season with a 47-35 record and were eliminated in the first round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs.
• Both Anthony Davis and LeBron James were named All-NBA in the 2024-25 season.

Yes but

The uncertainty around star availability in the upcoming offseason could pose a challenge to the Lakers’ roster improvement plans.

Game status

• The Lakers are struggling with limited cap space and the departure of head coach Darvin Ham as they look to strengthen their roster.
• Rob Pelinka’s strategy focuses on building an extensive squad, not on making blockbuster deals for stars.
• The team’s goal is to retain key players like Rui Hachimura and Austin Reaves while strengthening their depth.

What’s next

The Lakers could opt to make trades that prioritize roster depth over star power, potentially involving key players like Hachimura and Reaves in trades aimed at strengthening the team.

Bottom line

Amid uncertainty over star availability, the Lakers’ shift toward strengthening their supporting cast reflects Pelinka’s strategic move to maximize roster size and retain key players with the goal of building a competitive team under financial constraints.