Lakers Clinch Playoff Berth for Fourth Straight Season

Los Angeles looks to make deeper playoff run after disappointing exit last year.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:35am

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The Los Angeles Lakers have clinched a spot in the NBA playoffs for the fourth consecutive season after the Phoenix Suns lost to the Orlando Magic. The Lakers, led by Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves, have been on a roll lately, winning 12 of their last 13 games and are on track to finish with their best record since the 2019-2020 championship season.

Why it matters

The Lakers' fourth straight playoff appearance is a significant milestone, as the franchise had not achieved that feat since an eight-year streak from 2006 to 2013 during Kobe Bryant's prime. After a disappointing early exit from last year's playoffs, the Lakers will look to make a deeper run this postseason.

The details

The Lakers clinched their playoff spot after the Phoenix Suns lost to the Orlando Magic on Tuesday. Los Angeles had the chance to secure their berth on Monday by beating the Washington Wizards, but that was delayed when the Suns defeated the Memphis Grizzlies. With Doncic, James, and Reaves playing well, the Lakers have won 12 of their last 13 games and are on pace for their best record since their 2020 championship season.

  • The Lakers clinched a playoff spot on Tuesday, April 1, 2026.
  • The Lakers had the chance to clinch on Monday, March 31, 2026, but that was delayed.
  • The Lakers are looking for their fourth straight playoff appearance.

The players

Luka Doncic

All-Star forward for the Los Angeles Lakers.

LeBron James

Veteran superstar and four-time NBA champion for the Los Angeles Lakers.

Austin Reaves

Emerging young guard for the Los Angeles Lakers.

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What’s next

The Lakers will look to continue their strong play and make a deep playoff run after their disappointing early exit last season.

The takeaway

The Lakers' fourth straight playoff appearance is a testament to the team's resilience and ability to overcome adversity. With their star-studded roster firing on all cylinders, Los Angeles will be a formidable opponent in the postseason as they seek to add another championship to their storied franchise.