Luka Doncic faces a familiar rival as Lakers begin a very different season without LeBron James image
For years, Los Angeles Lakers season openers featured the same familiar storyline. LeBron James was the centerpiece, championship expectations surrounded the franchise, and the organization attempted to build another contender around one of basketball's greatest players.
Wednesday night will look considerably different.
The Lakers open their 2026-27 regular season against the Golden State Warriors at Crypto.com Arena, beginning their first campaign since James departed for the Philadelphia 76ers. Luka Doncic now carries the responsibility of leading Los Angeles into its next era.
Standing across from him will be one of the NBA's most recognizable stars, Stephen Curry.
The matchup gives basketball fans an immediate opportunity to evaluate how the Lakers are adjusting to their new identity.
Doncic becomes the unquestioned centerpiece in Los Angeles
Doncic already established himself as one of the NBA's premier offensive players before the Lakers acquired him from Dallas. His passing, scoring and ability to control the pace of a game make him capable of carrying an offense for extended stretches.
But this season presents a different challenge.
With James now in Philadelphia, Doncic becomes the unquestioned central figure in Los Angeles. Austin Reaves remains an important offensive partner, while Walker Kessler provides another presence around the basket.
The Lakers must find ways to generate consistent scoring while establishing a defensive identity capable of supporting Doncic's offensive production. Wednesday's matchup offers an interesting opening test because Golden State has extensive experience competing against elite playmakers.
The Warriors also defeated the Lakers during the preseason, giving Los Angeles additional motivation heading into the regular-season meeting.
MORE: Warriors reveal if Stephen Curry will play season opener vs. Lakers after injury scare
Curry is expected to play despite recent ankle scare
Golden State enters the opener with its own concerns. Curry experienced a right ankle injury scare during a Sunday scrimmage, creating uncertainty about his availability. However, the 38-year-old participated fully in Monday's practice, and Warriors coach Steve Kerr indicated that Curry was expected to be available against Los Angeles.
That is encouraging news for Golden State.
Curry averaged 26.6 points last season despite appearing in only 43 games because of a knee injury. His shooting remains one of the most dangerous offensive weapons in basketball, particularly against opponents that struggle to defend movement away from the ball.
Golden State's supporting cast presents additional questions. Jimmy Butler III and Moses Moody have been dealing with knee injuries, while Brandin Podziemski and Kristaps Porzingis have also faced health concerns.
The Warriors will need contributions throughout the roster if they hope to begin the season with a road victory. For the Lakers, Wednesday represents something bigger than a single game.
It is the beginning of a season in which Doncic no longer shares the spotlight with James. For Curry, it is another opportunity to demonstrate that he remains capable of leading Golden State against the league's best.
The Lakers and Warriors tip off Wednesday, October 21, at 10 p.m. ET on ESPN.
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