Lakers Promised Luka Doncic Mavericks-like Roster Build

That means Los Angeles is on the hunt for a lob-catching big man, who can also provide rim protection. The team was 3D threats around Doncic too. And they know they need a secondary playmaker to pair with their superstar for the long-term. That last piece already seems to be in place in Austin Reaves. The Lakers expect Reaves to decline his player option for the 2026-27 season to sign a long-term deal. Doncic has reportedly made it clear to the Lakers that his preference is to continue to play alongside Reaves. The two have developed good on-court chemistry, in addition to a close friendship off the floor. Finding the kind of pick-and-roll partner for Doncic up front, as well as 3D players, will take more work. But the Lakers could have north of 50 million in cap space to work with this offseason to fill out the roster around Doncic and a presumably re-signed Reaves.