LOS ANGELES, 27 February 2026 – The Los Angeles Lakers find themselves at a critical juncture as the 2025-26 NBA season enters its final stretch. Following a recent defeat to the Boston Celtics on 22 February, the franchise is navigating the complexities of a roster led by the superstar pairing of Luka Doncic and LeBron James, while simultaneously scouring the trade and free-agent markets for defensive reinforcements.
Trade Rumours and Roster Moves
As the February trade deadline passes and the focus shifts toward the 2026 off-season, the Lakers’ front office is reportedly active in pursuing high-calibre talent to bolster their championship aspirations. Recent reports indicate that the team has identified Trey Murphy III of the New Orleans Pelicans as a primary target for the 2026 off-season, seeking a versatile wing who can provide elite shooting and perimeter defence alongside Doncic.
Internal discussions have also linked the Lakers to several prominent names to address frontcourt depth. Rumours suggest interest in Cleveland Cavaliers centre Jarrett Allen and an unnamed versatile big man from the Oklahoma City Thunder. Additionally, there is growing speculation regarding Kawhi Leonard’s future with the Clippers, with insiders suggesting the Lakers are “ideally placed” to make a move should Leonard become available due to uncertainty across the hall at Intuit Dome.
The Luka Doncic Era in Los Angeles
The 2025-26 season has been defined by the integration of Luka Doncic into the “Purple and Gold.” While Doncic remains the team’s leading scorer, public sentiment has been mixed following a string of inconsistent performances. Head Coach JJ Redick recently confirmed that Doncic is expected to return to the lineup after a brief absence, alongside Austin Reaves, who will no longer be under a minutes restriction.
Despite the star power, some analysts and fans have voiced concerns regarding the team’s defensive identity. The Lakers currently hold the 16th-best net rating in the league, with critics pointing to a lack of defensive cohesion outside of specific zone schemes. However, the franchise is projected to have significant cap space in the coming months to further tailor the roster around Doncic’s unique skill set.
Historical Excellence: Retired Numbers
The Lakers remain one of the most storied franchises in professional sports, second only to the Boston Celtics in total championships. A key part of the team’s identity is the celebration of its legends through retired jerseys hanging in the rafters.
| Player | Jersey Number(s) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Kobe Bryant | 8 & 24 | Retired 18 Dec 2017; 5x NBA Champion. |
| Wilt Chamberlain | 13 | Hall of Famer; 1x Champion with Lakers. |
| Pau Gasol | 16 | Retired 7 March 2023; 2x NBA Champion. |
| Elgin Baylor | 22 | 11x NBA All-Star; Hall of Famer. |
| Magic Johnson | 32 | 5x NBA Champion; 3x NBA MVP. |
| Kareem Abdul-Jabbar | 33 | NBA’s former all-time leading scorer; 5x Champion with Lakers. |
| Shaquille O’Neal | 34 | 3x Finals MVP with the Lakers. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many championships have the Lakers won?
The Los Angeles Lakers have won 17 NBA championships, the second-most in league history behind the Boston Celtics, who hold 18 titles.
Who is the current head coach of the Lakers?
As of the 2025-26 season, the Lakers are coached by JJ Redick.
Which player has two retired numbers with the Lakers?
Kobe Bryant is the only player in franchise history to have two different numbers retired: No. 8 and No. 24.
What is the latest on the Lakers’ trade activity?
The Lakers are currently linked to several high-profile targets, including Trey Murphy III, Jarrett Allen, and potentially Kawhi Leonard, as they look to improve their defensive rating and support the duo of Luka Doncic and LeBron James.