If one were to ask ESPN, the Los Angeles Lakers are one of the top teams who should be expected to significantly trend downward. With September right around the corner, it is difficult to imagine how they possibly came to that conclusion.
The group of NBA insiders at ESPN teamed up for a summer forecast, attempting to answer some of the biggest questions heading into the 2025-26 NBA season. One of those topics asked, "Which team will take a tumble this season?"
To the surprise and confusion of fans everywhere, the Lakers were slotted into the second highest spot on that list. Los Angeles only trailed the Milwaukee Bucks in that category. The other company the Lakers were keeping? The Boston Celtics, Phoenix Suns, Philadelphia 76ers, and Indiana Pacers.
That projection offers a sizable disconnect from the upward trajectory that can be suggested based off notable offseason improvements and a superstar who is ready to light the world on fire. So, to the people at ESPN, what gives?
The truth about Lakers’ summer looks very different
No one will sit here and argue that Rob Pelinka and the Lakers front office had a perfect offseason. However, it can certainly be viewed as one that inspires some quiet confidence in Los Angeles.
The Lakers upgraded their overall rotational depth with the additions of Marcus Smart, Deandre Ayton, Jake LaRavia, and Adou Thiero. Another boost to the main contributors on the team would be welcome, and desirable, but that can wait until the season gets going.
Luka Doncic and his return to form offer the biggest reason to be optimistic about the Lakers' chances in 2025-26. After an injury-riddled 2024-25 season, Doncic's body transformation has him poised for a big bounce-back campaign and reestablishment of his MVP-caliber play.
To think that Doncic and the Lakers managed to win 50 games in the previous season with the Lakers superstar being far from his best version should be a strong reminder of the ceiling that can be had with him at his best, surrounded by a better roster. Instead, the Lakers are expected to take a step back by ESPN?
The other teams on that list all have valid reason for being there. The Bucks continue to gamble with underwhelming rosters around Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Celtics are missing Jayson Tatum, and traded away two more core pieces.
The Suns retooled, moving off Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal. The 76ers continue to ask whether Joel Embiid will be available and playing up to full capacity. The Pacers are going to be without their offensive engine and heart of their team.
Why would the Lakers be lumped in with those squads?
Perhaps the Denver Nuggets and Houston Rockets did catapult themselves above the Lakers in the short-term. However, anticipating a major drop-off is downright misguided considering everything working in Los Angeles' favor.