Lakers’ new core draws doubts about life after LeBron James

October 21, 2026

The Lakers have rebuilt around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, with Walker Kessler anchoring the middle. Whether that makes them better without LeBron James is another question.

Stephen A. Smith isn’t buying it.

Speaking with Steve Mason on ESPN LA, Smith said he views the second round as the Lakers’ ceiling this season. His concerns center on the defense of the starting guards and Kessler’s offensive limitations.

“Trip to the Western Conference semifinals,” Smith said, as relayed by Lakers Daily. “That’s about it. I can’t see the Los Angeles Lakers getting any further than that. Matter of fact, I’d be proud of them if they got that far.”

Smith placed Los Angeles no higher than fifth in his Western Conference outlook and questioned whether the roster changes adequately compensate for James’ departure.

“You still should’ve kept LeBron James there,” he said. “Because that was something they were unable to do, I find it very, very difficult to imagine that the Lakers are gonna be better off without LeBron James this upcoming season.”

The Lakers do have adjustments to make, particularly in how Kessler operates alongside Doncic and Reaves. Against Denver’s aggressive preseason defense, the center had to make decisions after receiving passes out of traps, rather than simply rolling to finish at the basket.

Kessler finished that game with six points and four assists while shooting 2-of-8. His passing could become useful when opponents commit extra defenders to the guards, though building that chemistry will take time.

Coach JJ Redick could also get another ball-handler back in Collin Sexton, who returned to full practice Monday after dealing with lower-leg tightness. His availability for Wednesday’s opener against the Warriors remained uncertain.

Sexton would give Redick another way to generate offense when Doncic or Reaves rests. The larger test is whether the Lakers can defend well enough to give their offense a chance in a playoff series.

Smith has his answer. The Lakers begin making their case Wednesday.