JJ Redick Wants Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves, and LeBron James Back Together

The Los Angeles Lakers are prioritizing a roster core centered on Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves, and LeBron James as the organization strategizes for the upcoming offseason. Coach JJ Redick confirmed on May 12, 2026, that the team intends to keep these three players together.

The announcement comes as the franchise evaluates its performance following the 2025-26 season, which concluded with a second-round sweep by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Rob Pelinka, the Lakers’ general manager and vice president of basketball operations, stated that the front office and coaching staff will deconstruct the previous season to identify necessary improvements.

Strategic Roster Reconfiguration

Internal organizational goals involve a shift in the team’s operational hierarchy to maximize potential. Coach Redick has outlined a vision where Luka Dončić takes primary control of the team’s direction, while Austin Reaves is expected to move forward in his role. This strategy requires LeBron James, who is 41 years old, to step back from his previous level of dominance.

Team sources indicated that Redick focused on empathy during meetings with Dončić and Reaves regarding these changes. While James has publicly stated a willingness to do whatever is necessary for the team to win, stakeholders within the organization have expressed uncertainty regarding how the all-time leading scorer will adapt to the new hierarchy.

Impact of Player Injuries

The Lakers’ recent playoff exit was heavily influenced by significant injuries to key personnel. General Manager Rob Pelinka highlighted the absences of Dončić and Reaves during critical stretches of the postseason.

Dončić suffered a Grade 2 left hamstring injury, while Reaves dealt with a Grade 2 left oblique strain. The injuries are linked to a decision made on April 2, during a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite the Lakers trailing by 31 points at halftime, both players informed medical staff they wished to continue playing in the second half.

This decision proved costly for the team’s season trajectory. The gamble resulted in Dončić missing the remainder of the regular season and the entirety of the playoffs, while Reaves missed the majority of the postseason, returning only for the final games.

Future Talent Acquisition

Beyond maintaining the primary core, the Lakers are looking to diversify their roster through several channels. Pelinka cited a specific need to acquire young talent via the NBA Draft, free agency, and trades.

In addition to player acquisitions, the front office is planning a revamped player development system to better integrate new talent and support the existing core. Pelinka praised the resilience and work ethic of the current squad but emphasized that these systemic changes are necessary for the team to improve upon the 2025-26 results.

The organization’s commitment to its core was summarized by Redick on May 12, 2026:

Of course, we want that core to be back together.

JJ Redick