Lakers Roster Shakeup: Ayton Acquisition and Doncic's Fitness Boost

As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, the Los Angeles Lakers have finalized their roster, which, while not perfect, is expected to be highly competitive and capable of scoring plenty of points.

The most notable change is the acquisition of Deandre Ayton, who will now serve as the team's starting center, a significant upgrade from Jaxson Hayes' backup role. The addition of Ayton, along with the continued development of Luka Doncic, who is reported to be in the best physical condition of his career, has Lakers fans optimistic about the team's chances in the upcoming season.

However, the Lakers' roster is not without its weaknesses. The team has been hoping to make one or two more trades to land a 3-and-D player or a better backup center. Their main trade chips are the expiring contracts of Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber, and Rui Hachimura, though the Lakers are reportedly reluctant to part with Hachimura.

The Lakers' front office is also believed to be focused on maintaining salary cap flexibility for the next two summers, when superstars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Nikola Jokić could potentially become available. Despite this, the team is expected to be aggressive in seeking trades leading up to the winter trade deadline, as they look to further strengthen their roster and position themselves as a contender in the Western Conference.