Marc Stein lit the fire of hope in Los Angeles when the NBA insider suggested Rob Pelinka and his front office were ready to be more aggressive in building a championship contender around Luka Doncic. Dan Woike of The Athletic only reaffirmed this in his most recent write-up.
The Los Angeles Lakers beat writer sang pretty much the exact same tune that Stein did. The idea was now that Doncic is fully locked up on an extension, there is reason for the Lakers to abide by their superstar's wishes and deliver an upgraded roster.
Woike wrote, "According to team and league sources, the Lakers’ stance on roster improvements heading into this season has shifted because of the start of this new chapter together."
The Lakers insider similarly shared intel about an increased willingness from the front office to take on contracts that last beyond the 2025-26 season. Upgrading the wings was likewise confirmed as a main priority for Los Angeles.
Trusted voices give weight to the Lakers’ latest speculation
When there are multiple insiders telling the exact same story, it is worth listening. Stein and Woike are both reliable insiders when it comes to this kind of information. That should give plenty of reason to believe there is a ton of weight to what is being said here.
Woike even added to the conversation around Andrew Wiggins specifically. The Lakers insider called the Miami Heat forward a 'more desirable player' after the shift in mentality from the organization. Granted, the price still needed to be right for Pelinka and company to pull the trigger.
Another important piece of information that was added to the mix was the Lakers' stance on their lone tradeable first-round pick. Woike explained that asset would be 'earmarked for a much bigger move in the future.'
Doncic's incredible run at EuroBasket 2025 has inspired motion in the front office. Planning for a future that is off to the distance does seem rather silly when an improved superstar, who has a case for being the best player on the planet after his incredible display in the tournament, is on the roster.
For a fanbase that loves to be involved in rumor mill gossip, it is time to buckle up. The Lakers appear poised to be active and that should bring a lot of fun with what that could entail. Those with photoshop skills are in for a good time.