The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly changing their long-term team direction by moving away from relying on LeBron James, the 2020 NBA Finals MVP, as their central figure. This shift in focus emerged in 2025 as the Lakers begin to build their future around the five-time All-NBA guard Luka Doncic, who is becoming the new cornerstone of the franchise.
According to Ethan J. Skolnick of 5 Reasons Sports during a SiriusXM NBA Radio appearance, the Lakers’ strategy now clearly centers on Doncic, who, at 26 years old, is much younger and more aligned with the team’s future timeline than James, who is 40. The Lakers’ pivot reflects a recognition that the team’s competitive window will be better served by investing in Doncic as their primary star.
Impact of the Trade That Changed Lakers’ Trajectory
The Lakers made a major move earlier in 2025, trading Anthony Davis, a 10-time All-Star center and power forward, along with shooting guard Max Christie and a 2029 first-round pick to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Luka Doncic and role players Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris. This blockbuster trade stunned the NBA community by essentially trading away one of their last championship-contending rosters to acquire Doncic, who immediately elevated the Lakers’ competitiveness with his dynamic playmaking and scoring ability.
This transaction significantly altered the balance of power in the Western Conference. While the Lakers slid down to a rebuilding position after moving Davis, a prime center, the Mavericks regained optimism for their future after receiving the No. 1 pick, which they used to draft Duke prospect Cooper Flagg. The Lakers, on the other hand, have opened a new chapter focused on long-term success centered on Doncic’s prime years.
LeBron James’ Future in Los Angeles Appears Limited
Sources indicate that the Lakers are prepared to move on from LeBron James sooner rather than later. James, currently on an expiring contract valued at $52.6 million, failed to agree to a new deal with the Lakers this summer, signaling potential parting ways. Skolnick highlighted the tension surrounding this transition, noting that James is aware he is no longer the team’s priority.
“He recognizes he’s not their priority anymore.” —Ethan J. Skolnick, sports analyst
This feels to me like the Lakers want to get out of LeBron James’ business. They want to pivot. He doesn’t like not to be celebrated, —Ethan J. Skolnick, sports analyst
It just feels like he recognizes he’s not their priority anymore, and that’s created some tension, some friction, and that’s why we’ve seen Rich Paul come out and said and [hinted] things in this regard. —Ethan J. Skolnick, sports analyst
Despite this shift, James remains a highly skilled offensive player, though he no longer possesses the defensive dominance he exhibited during his Miami Heat tenure. However, his age and significant salary commitments pose challenges for Lakers management in constructing a sustainable championship roster around him.
Broader Context and What Lies Ahead for the Lakers
The Lakers’ decision to pivot toward Luka Doncic marks a strategic turn as they look to the future beyond LeBron James. This realignment allows the franchise to develop around a younger star who can lead the team deep into playoff contention for years. It also frees up roster flexibility to build complementary pieces tailored to Doncic’s playstyle.
With Doncic now the centerpiece, the Lakers are positioned to reshape their identity and competitive outlook. The transition may involve difficult roster decisions, including potentially moving LeBron James before his contract expires. The Lakers’ fans and the NBA community will be closely watching how this new chapter unfolds and how the team balances honoring a franchise legend while embracing a new era.