The Los Angeles Lakers have launched a new era for the franchise this summer.
After LeBron James informed the Lakers he would not return for the 2026-27 season, the roster reconstruction quickly began.
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General manager Rob Pelinka headlined the Lakers’ free agent signings by inking center Walker Kessler to a four-year, $130 million deal.
Kessler joined superstar Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves as the team’s new big three and basketball fans had much to say about Hollywood’s newest trio.
In a post on Instagram, comedian and actor Jordan Conley read comments from fans giving new nicknames for the new look Lakers.
“The Harvard Lakers”
“Lakestreet boys !!!”
“Looking like Dawson’s Creek”
“The Credit Scorers”
“Getting back to the Minneapolis Lakers”
“THE SNOWTIME LAKERS”
“The Beatles”
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While the Lakers have completely revamped their roster, Kessler is just one of many new faces that the storied franchise has welcomed over the last few days.
The Lakers also added guards Collin Sexton and Quentin Grimes as well as big man Sandro Mamukelashvili. Sexton and Grimes serve as replacements for sharpshooter Luke Kennard and defensive specialist Marcus Smart.
Mamukelashvili gives the Lakers additional height and skill in the frontcourt. On Friday, LA traded Deandre Ayton to the Washington Wizards in exchange for guard Jaden Hardy and two second-round picks.
There is speculation the team has at least one more impending trade as the Lakers have been linked free agent forwards Rui Hachimura and Jonathan Kuminga.
Hachimura has spent the last three-plus seasons in LA, but has gained interest from other teams on the market. The Lakers are missing a versatile wing defender and both Hachimura and Kuminga would be sufficient additions for the purple and gold.
It’s up to Pelinka to orchestrate another deal as the Lakers look to return to contender status for the 2026-27 season.
