The Los Angeles Lakers were swept out of the playoffs by the Oklahoma City Thunder in a 4-0 series defeat. Despite the disappointing exit, the players left everything on the floor. Three Lakers scored over 20 points, with Austin Reaves putting up 27 points and Jaxson Hayes recording a career-high 18 points. Even Reaves, often criticized for his playoff performance, delivered. For a roster with these limitations, their effort was arguably 200% above expectations. The real problem lies with the front office, which failed to build a competitive supporting cast. Now, as the summer approaches, several critical decisions loom.
**LeBron James’ Future**
Although U.S. media highlighted LeBron James’ illustrious career during Game 4, roughly 80% of fans still believe he will play another season. Losing to the Thunder wasn’t solely James’ fault – his contributions helped the Lakers get past the Rockets earlier. But the pressing question is whether the Lakers should keep him. While many hope he stays, the most sensible move might be to let him go. James, at 42, still has moments of brilliance and can rise to big occasions, but a sharp decline could come at any moment. Offering him a high-paying two-year deal carries significant risk.
Furthermore, if the Lakers want to build a championship team around Luka Dončić, they need defensive-minded, three-point shooting wings – players like P.J. Washington or Derrick Jones Jr. James can score but cannot sustain high-level defense. Pairing him with Dončić would create two defensive weak points. It might be better to let James walk, freeing up $50 million in cap space to sign a big, 3-and-D wing and a quality interior defender. That would address the Lakers’ perimeter defense and interior scoring issues, while James could chase a final ring or return to a team where he fits better.
**Handling Austin Reaves**
The Lakers are widely expected to move on from Reaves. Even though his series against the Thunder wasn’t terrible, team executives agree he won’t be retained. However, letting him leave for nothing doesn’t serve the Lakers’ interests. The best strategy is a sign-and-trade – offer him a contract in the $25-30 million range (a second-option salary) and use him to acquire a trade asset or to re-sign other players. Reaves likely understands his market value and may accept a lower amount for a longer-term deal, which also benefits his next team.
**Other Roster Decisions**
Beyond James and Reaves, the Lakers must decide on Rui Hachimura, Maxi Kleber, Deandre Ayton, Jaxson Hayes, and others. Hachimura should be retained but at no more than $25 million per season. Kleber can be let go. Luke Kennard could stay if the Lakers land another star this summer, as his shooting would be valuable. Both Ayton and Hayes can be moved – the priority is finding a reliable, athletic center. Marcus Smart should be kept; he provides elite perimeter defense and is a trusted teammate of Dončić, pairing well with him in the backcourt.
Jarred Vanderbilt plays hard but lacks shooting. His $12 million salary is manageable, but he should be used sparingly, similar to Kyle Anderson’s role in Minnesota. If the Lakers acquire a big wing with shooting and defense, they could trade Vanderbilt for draft assets.
In short, the Lakers’ summer priorities are to find high-quality role players at the three and five positions. Everyone else will be evaluated based on fit with Dončić. The message is clear: the Luka Dončić era is coming to Los Angeles.