Lakers Have ‘Clear Path’ to Massive Cap Space Next Offseason

The Lakers could have a massive amount of money to play with next summer.

Apr 27, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) dribbles past Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle (30) in the second quarter during game four of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-Imagn Images | Matt Blewett-Imagn Images

Every offseason, the Los Angeles Lakers are viewed as a free agent destination. They are looked at as a place that players want to play for a variety of reasons.

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They are usually one of the best teams in the NBA, the weather is great year-round, and there are all kinds of marketing opportunities available in Los Angeles.

Next season, the Lakers have an opportunity to open up a massive amount of cap space to help them in their pursuit of winning another NBA championship, with Luka Doncic at the forefront of the roster.

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With Doncic signing a three-year, $165 million extension, the Lakers are committing to building around him for the foreseeable future. The summer of 2026 could see them try to sign some top free agents.

According to Third Apron, they have a clear path to opening up a lot of cap space next summer, which could clear the way for them to sign some top free agents.

"They have a clear path to 2026 cap space. They can create $30 million to sign a top free agent while re-signing Austin Reaves to a new contract. That projection includes Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart opting into their respective player options."

They would have even more cap space if LeBron James decides to opt out of his deal at the end of the season. There has been speculation that James might want to leave the Lakers, with them paying more attention to Doncic this offseason.

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Los Angeles is usually good enough to bring in at least one superstar every couple of offseasons in free agency. Finding one who fits well with Doncic will be their next big move.

Of course, the Lakers are still trying to win a title next year with both Doncic and James on the roster. After being the third seed this past year, they aren't that far away from achieving that goal.

Locking up Doncic gives them the ability to have a superstar to build around for the next decade. That was their top priority this summer, which was something they accomplished.

For more news and notes on the Los Angeles Lakers, visit Los Angeles Lakers on SI.