Lakers Surge Ahead of Playoffs with Revamped 'Big Three'

LeBron, Luka, and Reaves lead Lakers' late-season turnaround as they eye deep playoff run

Mar. 19, 2026 at 9:07am

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The Los Angeles Lakers have turned their season around, riding a seven-game winning streak to climb to the 3rd seed in the Western Conference with a 44-25 record. The team's 'Big Three' of Luka Dončić, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves have finally clicked under head coach JJ Redick, leading to an offensive resurgence and renewed championship aspirations.

Why it matters

The Lakers' turnaround has shifted the narrative around the team, as they've gone from a potential play-in threat to a legitimate contender in the Western Conference. Their ability to integrate their star-studded roster and find defensive consistency will be crucial as they aim for a deep playoff run.

The details

Luka Dončić has been the engine of the Lakers' 8th-ranked offense since joining the team, leading the NBA in scoring at 32.9 PPG. LeBron James has successfully transitioned into a 'supercharged role player' and secondary playmaker at 41 years old, maintaining elite efficiency. Meanwhile, Austin Reaves has blossomed into a legitimate third star, averaging 23.8 PPG and allowing the Dončić-James pairing to function without crowding each other. The additions of DeAndre Ayton and Marcus Smart have also provided an interior presence and defensive identity for the Lakers.

  • The Lakers are currently riding a seven-game winning streak.
  • The Lakers currently sit as the 3rd seed in the Western Conference with a 44-25 record.

The players

Luka Dončić

The Lakers' new star acquisition, currently leading the NBA in scoring at 32.9 PPG and serving as the engine of the team's 8th-ranked offense.

LeBron James

At 41 years old, the Lakers' veteran superstar has successfully transitioned into a 'supercharged role player' and secondary playmaker, maintaining elite efficiency.

Austin Reaves

The Lakers' third star who has blossomed this season, averaging 23.8 PPG and allowing the Dončić-James pairing to function without crowding each other.

DeAndre Ayton

The Lakers' new addition who provides the interior presence they previously lacked.

Marcus Smart

The Lakers' new defensive anchor who often covers for the defensive lapses of the backcourt.

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What they’re saying

“The Lakers are currently 'Tier 2' contenders. They are no longer a 'play-in' threat; they are a legitimate threat to make a Western Conference Finals run.”

— Ralph Garcia, CEO, NGSC Sports

What’s next

The Lakers will look to continue their strong play and secure a top seed in the Western Conference playoffs, where they will face stiff competition from the dominant Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs.

The takeaway

The Lakers' late-season turnaround has transformed them from a potential play-in team to a legitimate championship contender, with their 'Big Three' of Luka, LeBron, and Reaves leading the charge. However, their defensive concerns and depth issues will need to be addressed if they hope to dethrone the powerhouses of the West.