Lakers-Suns
A new era begins for the Lakers without LeBron James.
The 2026–27 Los Angeles Lakers season will be the 80th season of the franchise, its 79th season in the National Basketball Association (NBA), its 67th season in Los Angeles, and its 28th season playing home games at Crypto.com Arena. This will be the first season since 2017–18 to not feature LeBron James, who announced that he would no longer be playing for the Lakers for his 24th season; he would later sign with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Quick Facts
- First major playoff meeting
- 1976 Western Conference Semifinals
- Key era of conflict
- 1980s Showtime vs. Run TMC/Early Suns
- Defining rivalry period
- 2005-2010 (Kobe/Shaq vs. Nash)
- Notable series outcome
- Lakers won 2006 Western Conference Semifinals in 7 games
- Stadiums of battle
- Crypto.com Arena (formerly Staples Center) & Footprint Center (formerly US Airways/Amway Center)
Lore & Background
The Lakers entered the draft holding one first-round selection. They have previously traded their second-round selection to the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2020 and the pick was eventually used by the Golden State Warriors in the draft.
Reader's Guide
The Lakers' season includes preseason, regular season, and NBA Cup West Group C games. Transactions include trades, free agency, re-signed players, additions, and subtractions.
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