The Los Angeles Lakers enter the 2025–26 NBA season with renewed energy, determination, and one of the most compelling starting fives in the league. Blending championship experience, youthful athleticism, and strategic versatility, the Lakers’ projected lineup signals a clear mission — to return to the top of the Western Conference and contend for another championship banner in the rafters of Crypto.com Arena.
1. LeBron James – Small Forward / Power Forward
At 40 years old, LeBron James remains a central figure in the Lakers’ lineup. His longevity continues to redefine the limits of athletic performance in professional basketball. While his minutes are more carefully managed than in previous seasons, LeBron’s impact remains undeniable. His basketball IQ, court vision, and leadership provide the stabilizing force this team needs. Expect him to play a hybrid forward role, often orchestrating the offense as a point-forward while mentoring younger teammates. His presence ensures that the Lakers’ offense continues to revolve around efficiency, spacing, and smart decision-making.
2. Anthony Davis – Center / Power Forward
Anthony Davis enters the new season healthy and motivated, anchoring the defense and spearheading the frontcourt. Davis’ ability to guard multiple positions, protect the rim, and stretch the floor offensively makes him the team’s cornerstone. The Lakers’ success largely depends on Davis’ consistency — both in health and performance. As the franchise gradually transitions to the post-LeBron era, Davis’ leadership becomes increasingly vital. Head Coach Darvin Ham has reportedly emphasized utilizing Davis in more pick-and-roll actions and elbow isolations, allowing him to dominate mismatches and facilitate from mid-range.
3. Austin Reaves – Shooting Guard
Austin Reaves has emerged as a fan favorite and one of the league’s most promising young guards. His confidence, shot creation, and basketball IQ make him an ideal backcourt partner in the Lakers’ system. Reaves’ off-ball movement complements LeBron’s playmaking, while his improved perimeter shooting provides essential spacing. On defense, his hustle and ability to guard multiple positions help the Lakers maintain a balanced two-way attack. As Reaves continues to mature, his role as a secondary playmaker could become even more critical in managing offensive flow when LeBron rests.
4. D’Angelo Russell – Point Guard
Returning for another run, D’Angelo Russell brings shooting touch and offensive creativity to the starting lineup. While he faced criticism for inconsistency during past playoff appearances, Russell’s scoring instincts and improved defensive focus give the Lakers needed stability in the backcourt. He thrives in transition and half-court sets when paired with Reaves, allowing both guards to interchange as facilitators. Russell’s challenge this season will be maintaining intensity on both ends, especially when facing elite Western Conference guards.
5. Rui Hachimura – Forward
Rui Hachimura rounds out the starting five, adding size, strength, and mid-range reliability. His growth since joining the Lakers has been impressive, particularly his confidence in big moments. Hachimura’s physical presence allows the team to switch defensively without sacrificing rebounding. Offensively, he provides a dependable third-scoring option who can stretch defenses and finish at the rim.
A Season Built on Depth and Determination
This Lakers starting five represents more than just star power — it symbolizes strategic evolution. The team’s front office, under Rob Pelinka, has crafted a roster built for balance: veterans providing leadership, younger players delivering energy, and role players ready to step up. With improved bench depth and renewed chemistry, the 2025–26 Lakers are poised for a deep playoff push.
If health remains on their side, this starting lineup could very well be the group that restores the Lakers’ championship legacy — one smart pass, one defensive stop, and one defining moment at a time.
