Lakers Make Blockbuster Move Luka Dončić Joins LA in Trade Deadline Shock

The Los Angeles Lakers shook up the NBA with a game-changing 3-team trade for superstar Luka Dončić, just ahead of Thursday’s trade deadline. Despite Dončić’s absence since Christmas due to a left calf injury, the Lakers are expected to have him back in the starting lineup as soon as he’s healthy, adding a whole new dimension to their roster.

Here’s a look at the Lakers’ projected lineup and full roster after acquiring Dončić:

Projected Starting Five:

• Luka Dončić
• Austin Reaves
• Rui Hachimura
• LeBron James
• Jaxson Hayes

Key Reserves:

• Dorian Finney-Smith
• Dalton Knect
• Maxi Kleber
• Jarred Vanderbilt
• Gabe Vincent

Full Roster Breakdown:

Guards:

• Luka Dončić
• Bronny James
• Dalton Knect
• Shake Milton
• Austin Reaves
• Gabe Vincent

Forwards:

• LeBron James
• Dorian Finney-Smith
• Rui Hachimura
• Maxi Kleber
• Markieff Morris
• Cam Reddish
• Armel Traore
• Jarred Vanderbilt
• Christian Wood

Centers:

• Jaxson Hayes
• Trey Jemison III
• Christian Koloko

The addition of Dončić gives the Lakers a dynamic new weapon alongside LeBron James, and with his return from injury, the team will be ready to make a run at the playoffs. The new-look roster offers a balance of star power, depth, and versatility, as the Lakers aim to contend in the competitive Western Conference.