In-depth analysis of the Lakers' new season: LeBron isn't preoccupied with when to retire; chasing Jokic depends on Doncic's performance.

On August 14, Beijing time, renowned Lakers reporter Dan Woike addressed recent fan inquiries, discussing various hot topics related to the Lakers, such as changes brought by the new owner, LeBron's future, and the possibilities of acquiring Jokic or Giannis. Below is his interaction with fans—

Question 1: What do you think are the main changes the new Lakers owner will bring compared to the previous owner?

Considering the potential impact on the team, this should not be overlooked as it currently is. First, let me clarify a few points. Through conversations with insiders, my general impression is that everything is essentially "business as usual." However, anyone who has followed how the Los Angeles Dodgers became a powerhouse would not genuinely believe that Mark Walter will allow the Lakers to merely coast along.

One thing fans need to know is that the Lakers had already begun modernizing reforms before the sale, such as increasing investment in data analysis and medical staffing. However, to some extent, these investments were budget-constrained. With a wealthier owner, it is expected that the Lakers can take on more risks in expenditures not related to the salary cap.

A common criticism of the Lakers is that they do well in major matters but perform poorly in minor details. If resources can be allocated effectively, the odds of "getting the little things right" should improve. Of course, this won't solve all problems; many wealthy teams still make mistakes with minimum contracts and second-round draft picks. However, once a trade is completed, additional funds should help. Nonetheless, actions like hiring new strength coach Jeremy Holsopple were initiated before the sale news was made public.

Question 2: Will this be LeBron's last season with the Lakers? Will he retire as a Lakers player?

In my view, very few people know what LeBron James thinks about his future. Given his age, just preparing for the upcoming NBA season requires enough energy and focus, leaving no time to dwell on when his career might end.

What we know is that LeBron has one year left on his contract with the Lakers, with a salary close to the maximum (he took a slight pay cut last summer). He has trade veto rights and chose to stay with the team. I believe there are still many questions to be answered regarding how he and Doncic will perform as a star duo on a championship team, and the significance of these questions will likely prevent him from rushing into any major decisions next summer. Without a doubt, having an all-time leading scorer in the NBA, still performing at an All-Star level, in a contract year is a bit delicate.

All signs indicate that LeBron will participate in training camp at the end of September and begin his 23rd NBA season with the Lakers. Again, from what I know, whenever there was an opportunity to join other teams, LeBron has consistently chosen to remain with the purple and gold.

Question 3: What are the chances of the Lakers trading for Matisse Thybulle and Robert Williams III before the trade deadline? Additionally, if Giannis or Jokic want to join the Lakers next summer, which player would the Lakers prefer to pursue?

Let's tackle the first question. The Lakers are currently very close to the first luxury tax threshold, making it difficult for them to sign free agents. I find it hard to believe they would take the risk of acquiring two players with questionable health records. As for the second part, I think the team will reconsider whether it's feasible to bring in three max players. (If I had to choose, I would pick Jokic.)

Question 4: To be realistic, how likely is it that acquiring Giannis or Jokic in 2027 is feasible? Do you think the Lakers have enough assets to trade for Giannis?

Do I think it's realistic to target either of them in a trade? Not really. Unless a player clearly states they will join the Lakers in the free agent market, compelling the other 28 teams to drop out of the bidding, the market would be significantly constrained. Even so, the Lakers' bargaining chips are quite limited. Regarding the 2027 free agent market, if Giannis or Jokic can enter that market, it could be interesting, especially if Doncic performs to the Lakers' expectations.

Question 5: What do you think is the biggest flaw in the team's roster before the start of the new season? Do you think the Lakers might make a small trade using the expiring contracts of Reaves or Vincent before the season starts? If a trade occurs and creates flexibility, do you think they would sign Kevin Love to mentor LeBron as a veteran in the locker room?

I believe the Lakers will not make any further moves before the season starts, for a simple reason: the cost-effectiveness of making such a trade. The Lakers currently have two tradable draft picks, one first-round and one second-round, along with some low-value swap rights. Given Doncic's presence, the team's floor is already quite high. To free up a roster spot and sign remaining free agents, at least one second-round pick would need to be sacrificed, along with a veteran you might think could contribute (or at least someone whose impact is comparable to players still unsigned in August). As for trades, while negotiations may increase as training camp approaches, I think the Lakers are more likely to first assess the strengths and weaknesses of their current roster and seek improvements during the season, rather than completing a trade now with limited draft assets.

Question 6: Do you have any news about the expected role of Adu Tiero in the rotation? Was he selected for development or to play immediately? Additionally, did Knect's performance in the summer league affect the team's expectations and positioning for him this year?

There was some surprise around the NBA when Tiero missed the summer league due to a knee issue, but now I can finally bring some optimistic news. I’ve learned that Tiero has been training at the Lakers' facility and will be able to participate when training camp opens at the end of September. As for his role? The roster will be quite crowded. But this is a common phenomenon in the NBA. Young players who want to play must contribute on the defensive end. Tiero has the ability to make an impact defensively.

As for Knect, I won't say much except that NBA scouts don't seem to have taken his summer league performance too seriously.

Question 7: What will happen to Hachimura after his current contract expires?

This is a severely underrated potential storyline for the Lakers this season. In my view, Hachimura reflects both the strengths and weaknesses of the Lakers. Many of his abilities should shine when paired with Doncic.

If he has another outstanding season, one could argue he should sign a multi-year contract with the Lakers, even if this affects the team's future flexibility. However, if his defensive improvements are not genuine and his shooting declines (he has been shooting well over the past two full seasons), then trading him to free up salary cap space might become the better option.