While LeBron James may not be thrilled about not being catered to by the Lakers anymore, Luka Doncic is reportedly very happy playing alongside him.

The Los Angeles Lakers had a clear priority going into free agency: to find a rim-protecting, lob-threat center — and that’s exactly what they got last week, signing 26-year-old and 2018 No. 1 overall pick Deandre Ayton to a two-year deal.

EXCLUSIVE: Lakers guard Austin Reaves opened up about playing with two very different NBA stars — and what he’s focused on this offseason

Deandre Ayton has joined the Los Angeles Lakers, expressing his excitement about playing alongside Luka Doncic. Ayton signed a two-year, $16.6 million contract after being bought out by the Portland Trail Blazers.

The Lakers are still figuring out what to do with LeBron James. In this proposed deal they send him to Cleveland for one last homecoming while also building for Luka Doncic's future in LA.

LeBron James accomplished one of his stated career goals last season, and it was perhaps one of his most impressive. In his 22nd season, James was able to suit up and play alongside his son, Bronny, for the Los Angeles Lakers. And after picking up his player option last week it seems James will do so again in the 2025–26 campaign.