How Will Lakers Handle Offseason With LeBron James And Austin Reaves?

BusinessSportsMoneyHow Will Lakers Handle Offseason With LeBron James And Austin Reaves?ByMark Medina,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. NBA reporterFollow AuthorMay 12, 2026, 01:24am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 18: LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts against the Utah Jazz during the second quarter at Crypto.com Arena on November 18, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)Getty ImagesLOS ANGELES – Once again, the Lakers walked off the floor conveying pride in their resilience and frustration with their shortcomings.The Lakers labored and fought through a 115-110 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday in Game 4 of their second-round playoff series in what became an awfully familiar plot. The Lakers labored through a first-half shooting slump. They fought through a second-half spark. With Luka Dončic sidelined during the entire postseason with a Grade 2 left hamstring strain, the Lakers still provided a respectable effort with their 41-year-old star (LeBron James), their potential All-Star (Austin Reaves) and various role players. With the NBA’s defending champions lacking any major weakness, however, the Thunder still swept their playoff opponent for the second consecutive time. That left the Lakers entering the offseason nursing two conflicting feelings. They aren’t mutually exclusive, though. Regardless of Dončic’s availability, the Lakers showcased a playoff-caliber roster filled with star power and depth. With and without Dončic, however, the Lakers revealed they lack enough to contend for an NBA title. So where do the Lakers go from here? The Lakers ha...