In all respects, the Los Angeles Lakers are likely to maintain their identity in the 2024-25 season, resembling the team from 2023-24. This is an inevitable outcome when a franchise navigates free agency without adding any new players.
Even though the roster remains largely unchanged, the Lakers find themselves in a curious position as they prepare to unveil a radically different style of play.
The Lakers wrapped up the 2023-24 season with 47 victories, clinched their first NBA Cup, yet faced a disappointing first-round playoff exit. This performance sparked mixed reactions from fans and analysts alike—it highlighted moments of sheer brilliance juxtaposed by concerning signs of regression following their run to the Western Conference Finals in 2023.
Their divisive playoff journey concluded with an eighth loss in nine games against the Denver Nuggets.
The Lakers not only struggled to contain Nikola Jokic but also failed to synchronize as a unit throughout much of last season. Although their starting lineup mostly stayed healthy, it wasn’t enough to overcome various issues that ultimately disrupted their campaign.
Fortunately for them, despite similar roster appearances, Los Angeles is ready to adopt an altogether fresh approach on the court—thanks largely to key players bringing nuanced changes from one season to another.
That transformation commences with a promising wing who recently signed a contract opening doors for him within the rotation
The most significant event during free agency in 2024 for the Lakers was retaining LeBron James. Following that pivotal move was securing Max Christie—a young wing at just 21—with a four-year deal worth $32 million
