What happened: The 2025 deal that brought Luka Doncic to Los Angeles remains the pivot point for the franchise as the 2026-27 opener approaches. More than a year on, the move still sits at the center of how the Lakers' direction is measured.

Why it matters: That backdrop matters because Los Angeles still has to shape the rest of its roster before opening night, including one final cut from 16 players to 15. It also keeps the spotlight on Doncic's 60-point game in March as the clearest sign yet of what the Lakers are building around.

What to watch: The next concrete marker is the Lakers' final roster cut before the Oct. 20 opener. Any follow-on move will show how much of the roster is still being tuned around Doncic for 2026-27.