The Los Angeles Lakers are entering the 2025-26 NBA season with renewed confidence, fueled by a revamped roster and the transformative presence of Luka Doncic, who has spent his first full offseason integrating with the team. After a disappointing first-round playoff exit last season, the Lakers made strategic moves to address their weaknesses, signing center Deandre Ayton to bolster their interior presence and guard Marcus Smart to fortify their perimeter defense. However, the spotlight shines brightest on Doncic, whose arrival in Los Angeles last season and subsequent offseason preparation have sparked excitement and optimism within the organization.
Sep 29, 2025; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) during media day at UCLA Health Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
A “Chilling” Mantra Sets the Tone
At the Lakers’ first training camp practice, Doncic encapsulated his experience with a three-word mantra that sent ripples through the NBA: “Fun. Excitement. Hard.” As reported by Khobi Price of The Orange County Register, these carefully chosen words reflect Doncic’s mindset as he prepares for a pivotal season. The phrase, both concise and profound, serves as a rallying cry for a Lakers team determined to reclaim their place among the league’s elite.
Doncic elaborated on his mindset, emphasizing his eagerness for the regular season. “Obviously, with excitement,” he said. “For me, I can’t wait for the regular season. I know it’s way different, the preseason. Can’t wait for the real games. But getting the [practices], getting chemistry together, that’s about it.” His words underscore a player ready to elevate his game and lead the Lakers to a stronger start than last season, when they struggled early before acquiring Dorian Finney-Smith in a January trade.
Roster Upgrades and Defensive Focus
The Lakers’ front office addressed critical needs in the offseason. Deandre Ayton’s arrival strengthens the center position, providing a reliable rim protector and rebounder. Marcus Smart, known for his tenacious defense, addresses the Lakers’ struggles on the perimeter, which were glaringly exposed in last year’s playoff loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. These additions complement the existing core, including LeBron James, whose availability for opening night was confirmed by head coach JJ Redick with a succinct three-word response: “He’s good to go.”
However, the departure of Finney-Smith to the Houston Rockets on a $52.7 million deal means the Lakers will rely heavily on Doncic and their new additions to set the tone early. The team’s slow start last season underscored the importance of building chemistry and momentum from the outset, and Doncic’s full offseason with the Lakers is seen as a key factor in achieving that goal.
Doncic’s “Revenge Season” and MVP Buzz
Doncic, now in the best physical shape of his NBA career, is a leading candidate for the 2025-26 MVP award. After averaging 28.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per game following his midseason trade to Los Angeles last year, expectations are sky-high. Analysts and fans alike are predicting a “revenge season” for the Slovenian superstar, with many believing he could score at an unprecedented rate. Yet, for the Lakers, Doncic’s offensive prowess is only part of the equation.
The team is equally focused on his defensive improvement. Last season, Doncic’s defense was a liability at times, particularly against the Timberwolves in the playoffs. With Smart’s defensive leadership and Ayton’s presence in the paint, the Lakers are counting on Doncic to elevate his defensive intensity to match his offensive brilliance. If he can deliver on both ends, the Lakers could emerge as legitimate title contenders.
A Warning to the League
Doncic’s three-word mantra and the energy he’s brought to training camp serve as a stern warning to the rest of the NBA: the Lakers are coming. His leadership, combined with the team’s bolstered roster and renewed focus, positions Los Angeles as a formidable force. The chemistry built during the offseason, coupled with Doncic’s hunger to prove himself, sets the stage for a season that could redefine the Lakers’ trajectory.
As the regular season approaches, all eyes will be on Doncic and the Lakers. Can they translate their offseason optimism into on-court success? If their first practice is any indication, the rest of the league should be on notice.