Lakers' Jake LaRavia Plays All 82 Games in 2025-26 Season

Defensive wing becomes 45th player in franchise history to accomplish the feat.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 7:08pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a basketball player in motion, with their body broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in shades of purple, gold, and white, conveying the energy and intensity of the sport.Jake LaRavia's relentless defensive effort and durability anchored the Lakers' lineup during a challenging season.Los Angeles Today

Los Angeles Lakers forward Jake LaRavia was the only player on the team to appear in all 82 games during the 2025-26 NBA season, becoming the 45th player in franchise history to accomplish the feat. LaRavia, who has dealt with injuries in his first three seasons, said playing a full schedule was one of his biggest goals at the start of the year.

Why it matters

LaRavia's durability and reliability were crucial for the Lakers, who dealt with numerous injuries to key players throughout the season. His ability to play in every game and provide consistent defense and energy helped the team maintain stability in the lineup.

The details

In his first three NBA seasons with the Memphis Grizzlies and Sacramento Kings, LaRavia played in just 35, 35, and 66 games respectively. But this year, he credits a combination of mindset and luck for being able to avoid any significant injuries and play in all 82 contests. LaRavia's consistent production, even when his shooting wasn't at its best, earned him the trust of head coach JJ Redick and made him an important piece as the Lakers prepare for the playoffs.

  • The Lakers were able to win their last three games of the 2025-26 regular season and hold on to the fourth seed, meaning they will host the Houston Rockets in the first round of the NBA playoffs.

The players

Jake LaRavia

A defensive-minded wing player for the Los Angeles Lakers who played in all 82 games during the 2025-26 NBA season, becoming the 45th player in franchise history to accomplish the feat.

JJ Redick

The head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, who had to constantly adjust his lineups and rotations due to the team's numerous injuries throughout the 2025-26 season.

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What they’re saying

“Extremely. It was probably my biggest goal at the beginning of the season. Just kind of how the first three seasons went, I just wanted to have a healthy, consistent, reliable year and I was able to make that happen. So, I'm very excited about that.”

— Jake LaRavia, Lakers Forward

What’s next

The Lakers will host the Houston Rockets in the first round of the NBA playoffs after securing the fourth seed in the Western Conference.

The takeaway

Jake LaRavia's ability to play in all 82 games this season, despite the Lakers' injury struggles, demonstrates his durability and reliability as a key role player. His consistent defensive presence and energy will be crucial as the team tries to make a playoff run.