Lakers Build Around Dončić After James Joins Philadelphia

The Los Angeles Lakers are shifting their roster plans toward Luka Dončić after LeBron James chose to leave for the Philadelphia 76ers, with general manager Rob Pelinka describing the separation as amicable and outlining a goal of building a younger, deeper team around Dončić and Austin Reaves. Pelinka addressed James’ departure at the Lakers’ season-opening media availability, opening by thanking him for eight seasons with the franchise. Pelinka said the organization was grateful for James’ tenure and characterized offseason communications as diplomatic and professional. His remarks were public statements about the split; the team did not detail the private discussions behind James’ decision. James won the Lakers’ 2020 championship during his time in Los Angeles, and the team returned to consistent playoff contention. He has since joined Philadelphia. Pelinka did not discuss the circumstances of the departure in detail, instead turning to the roster the Lakers assembled for the coming season. Pelinka said the team’s offseason priorities were retaining Reaves, acquiring a franchise center and adding younger players who could dribble, pass and shoot.