Collect Moments from your 2024-25 Los Angeles Lakers including LeBron James, Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves!

During the NBA’s recently-released “NBA OGs: Friends & Rivals” interview, LeBron James — with this generation’s two other most influential superstars sitting alongside — was asked about what skill he would take from Stephen Curry, if possible. Opting for a no-brainer pick in shooting ability, it wouldn’t be long before James found his wish coming true. Guaranteed to bring an electric individual performance whenever the Golden State Warriors are scheduled, the Los Angeles Lakers’ future Hall of Famer took his greatness a step further, all the while taking multiple steps backward. Video game-like during a second quarter avalanche, James starts the downpour innocently enough, turning a catch-and-shoot opportunity into a spot-on triple. Seconds later, James, after collecting Draymond Green’s missed bunny, turns the Warriors’ lax defense into a second triple, ballooning the Lakers’ lead to 19. Confident, and officially approaching en fuego-like levels from deep, James tests his range on a 34-footer, stopping at midcourt to complete a three-triples-in-36-seconds sequence with flawless execution. Extraordinary beyond superlative, James concluded February 6, 2025’s win with 42 points (on 14-of-25), alongside a 17-rebound, eight-assist, one-steal, one-block, six-triple complement. History followed closely behind, as James became both NBA history’s youngest and oldest to produce a 40-point performance.

LeBron James

Celebrations, it’s said, are still a work in progress for Luka Dončić, as he continues stacking must-see moments in the Los Angeles Lakers’ purple-and-gold. In the meantime, California’s new generational talent can rest assured, knowing that he gave 18,997 in attendance plenty to cheer for during his first-ever clash against his former team. Doing his best to mask inevitable emotions — and any intentions on could-be passes — during his downhill drive, Dončić, catching sight of his backwards-drifting teammate out of his peripheral, proceeds as normal until reaching the heart of the paint. Putting even the in-game cameraman to work, the all-seeing superstar unleashes a no-look, over-the-head dime to a teammate, securing a 3-point assist in highlight fashion. As calm as a flowing river after picking up a technical just minutes in, Dončić cooled himself into a 19-point, 15-rebound, 12-assist triple-double, alongside three steals and two blocks, bringing tangible impact on both sides. Riding that wave, Los Angeles survived the Dallas Mavericks’ competitive efforts for a win on February 25, 2025, a victory that ultimately helped spark an eight-game winning streak.

Luka Dončić

Approaching well-oiled machine-type levels offensively on November 10, 2024, the Los Angeles Lakers could’ve confirmed their cohesiveness through a box score that showed both a 30-to-5 assist-to-turnover ratio, and 80 points generated off assists. As fun as that might’ve been for some, Austin Reaves had something even better in mind. Immediately decisive in punishing Davion Mitchell’s hyperaggressive 3-point closeout, Los Angeles’ gifted two-guard counters with a nifty spin move, prompting the gravitational pull of Ochai Agbaji’s help defense. One step ahead —  and yet mid-flight at once — Reaves outsmarts the Toronto Raptors' defense, unleashing a behind-the-back dime to a teammate, invigorating the crowd through a highlight assist. Unselfish plays of that caliber helped Los Angeles flip a once-imposing double-digit deficit entirely, as they used a ferocious post-halftime attack to guide a runaway victory. In a considerable groove of his own through a soon-to-be nine-game streak of double-figure scoring, Reaves was a top-shelf standout, recording a game-high 27 points (on 10-of-17 shooting), alongside six assists, three 3-pointers, and a +11 plus-minus.

Austin Reaves

With every elevation and accurate 3-pointer that Dalton Knecht sent airborne during mid-November’s eruption, hoops observers were left entertaining one ironic question: how did the Los Angeles Lakers’ new sharpshooter fall to No. 17? Incapable of cooling down, even after going 23-of-36 — and a sizzling 12-of-19 from downtown — over the three games preceding the Utah Jazz matchup, Knecht attacked November 19, 2024’s matchup with almost-unheard-of accuracy. Over a 90-second span, Knecht buried déjà vu-like spot-up triples along the left slot, immediately followed by a third, and a shrug for added measure. Knowing all wouldn’t be right in the world unless he completed the “Knecht Four,” L.A.’s fearless rookie incorporates some off-the-dribble razzle-dazzle, subtly lulling Cody Williams before swishing through a crowd-igniting fourth trifecta. Ultimately keying Los Angeles’ West Group B win, Knecht’s still-discussed performance oversaw 37 points, five rebounds, and a steal, alongside elite efficiency overall (12-of-16), from deep (9-of-12), and from the charity stripe (four-of-five). History was, of course, attached, as Knecht tied for the most single-game 3-pointers made by a rookie.

Dalton Knecht

The King's passing remains one of his strongest skills. Just before his 39th birthday, LeBron James helped the Lakers take down the Phoenix Suns in a knockout game for the In-Season tournament. James' master class was punctuated by this beautiful one-handed no look pass, threading the defense en route to an easy Taurean Prince finish at the rim. James finished the game with 31 points, 8 boards, 11 assists, and 5 steals as the Lakers took down the Suns on December 5, 2023.

Throughout his illustrious 19-year career, Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James has never shied away from a clutch moment, whether he’s making a play for himself or one of his teammates. He takes the Lakers’ destiny into his own hands with a confident, sidestep triple from way downtown followed by his signature “Silencer” celebration to quiet the crowd late in the fourth quarter. James’ huge shot was a part of a monster 39-point effort in a 124-116 overtime win over the Indiana Pacers on November 24, 2021.

No matter the age, situation, or defensive coverage, Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James makes the game of basketball look effortless. James showcases his world-class athleticism by sneaking backdoor on a cut, turning teammate Malik Monk’s lob into a reverse alley-oop slam to send the crowd into a frenzy. James racked up a 30-point, 12-rebound, five-assist performance on January 19, 2022.

On his 38th birthday, LeBron James put together a throwback performance for the ages. James shows the Atlanta Hawks what he is still capable of in year 20, reaching into his bag of tricks for all of his greatest hits — driving layups and slams in traffic, a pull-up triple to beat the shot clock, a turnaround baseline jumper and even collecting a rare missed layup for a second-chance putback. James is his usual helpful self when assisting on a couple of Thomas Bryant layups, and then reminds the basketball world that there’s no play he can’t make when he beats a defender off the dribble before driving strong into the paint for an and-one bucket despite being surrounded by three defenders. The 19-time All-Star lit up the Hawks for 47 points on 18 for 27 shooting while adding 10 rebounds, nine assists and four three-pointers in the Los Angeles Lakers’ 130-121 win on December 30, 2022.

When your blocked shots have visibly notable exit velocity, you’re doing something right on defense. Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James, already an all-time chasedown block artist, picks up a surging Collin Sexton in transition then launches his layup attempt to the scorers’ table in a January 25, 2021 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers.

LeBron James is a load for any transition defense to handle. Give him two teammates in a 3-on-2, and it’s game over. After generating a stop on defense, the Los Angeles Lakers star sprints down the court while the ball advances up the floor, then relays a pass from Kent Bazemore over his shoulder to Anthony Davis for a fastbreak jam. James started Year 19 off on a hot note, with 34 points, 11 rebounds, five assists, a steal and a block against the Golden State Warriors on October 19, 2021.

LeBron James can turn nothing into something with the flip of a switch. With a full head of steam, James makes a quick cross around one defender, then ducks into the paint and reaches back for an incredible, one-handed power dunk over Jaren Jackson Jr. The Los Angeles Lakers superstar was fully locked in with a game-high 35 points, nine rebounds and seven assists in a January 9, 2022 matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies.

That’s my quarterback! LeBron James sizes up a defensive rebound as it caroms off the rim then immediately throws a perfect spiral down the court to a streaking Kentavious Caldwell-Pope on January 10, 2021. James put up 18 points, seven rebounds and seven assists in the Los Angeles Lakers’ win over the Houston Rockets.

In his legendary Hall of Fame career, everything Magic Johnson touched exhibited greatness. Making even the most impossible plays seem effortless, Johnson grabs a rebound against the Denver Nuggets in Game 1 of the First Round, then fires a one-handed Hail Mary-style heave the full length of the court, hitting nothing but net. Even in his eighth season, the 12-time All-Star and five-time champion still had the ability to wow everyone in attendance, finishing the Los Angeles Lakers’ playoff-opener with 16 points, seven rebounds and 14 assists in a 128-95 victory on April 23, 1987.

Magic Johnson

Running the pick-and-roll with LeBron James sometimes appears so easy that it might as well be a cheat code. The 19-time All-Star shares the wealth at home against the Washington Wizards, bringing the ball across halfcourt before gaining access to the lane courtesy of a helpful screen. James baits the defense into focusing on him, but instead of taking the shot himself he drops off a smooth between-the-legs bounce pass to a cutting Thomas Bryant for a two-handed throwdown. James scored a game-high 33 points while adding seven rebounds and nine assists in the Los Angeles Lakers’ 119-117 victory on December 18, 2022.

Even with no LeBron James on the court, the new look Los Angeles Lakers took care of business. Jarred Vanderbilt was a big reason why, as the fifth-year forward takes his new opportunity and runs with it as he puts himself in the right spot to catch an Austin Reaves pass in the paint and finish with a throwdown over Donte DiVincenzo. Vanderbilt made great use of his 17 minutes off the bench, converting 5 of 7 field goals for 12 points while also chipping in eight rebounds and four assists in his new squad’s 109-103 win over the Golden State Warriors on February 11, 2023.

Jarred Vanderbilt

When you’re on the court with LeBron James as your teammate, it’s only a matter of time before opportunity knocks. Following a thunderous James rejection of Paul George, Austin Reaves scoops up the loose ball and motors the other way in transition before lobbing a flawless alley-oop pass to Lonnie Walker IV, who finishes the slam to get the home crowd on its feet. Reaves had an effective 22-minute run off the bench, posting four points, four rebounds and two assists in the Los Angeles Lakers’ intra-city rivalry game against the LA Clippers on October 20, 2022.

From the corner! Markieff Morris of the Los Angeles Lakers catches the feed from teammate LeBron James and nails the deep corner three ball in a 19-point performance against the Miami Heat in Game 3 of the NBA Finals on October 4, 2020.

Markieff Morris

An unsolvable equation since he set foot in the league two decades ago, LeBron James remains unstoppable with the ball in his hands and downhill momentum. Seizing a gap in the Phoenix Suns defense in the final minute of an early season contest, the Los Angeles Lakers star barrels to the hoop and lays in a critical two points. James racked up 21 points, eight rebounds, nine assists, two steals and a pair of blocks in the October 26, 2023 victory.

LeBron James has been around long enough to play against fathers and sons, but make no mistake about it: the King is still operating at peak power. James took Jabari Smith Jr. to school 20 years after playing against Smith’s dad in his NBA debut, using a combination of style and strength to get the best of the 19-year-old rookie on a trip up the court before finishing with a thunderous throwdown. James shot 16 for 26 for 48 points — the 100th 40-point outing of his iconic career — and chipped in eight rebounds, nine assists and five 3-pointers in a 140-132 Los Angeles Lakers victory over the Houston Rockets on January 16, 2023. 

Of all the environments capable of potentially housing the first-ever bucket of Bronny James’ NBA career, there was one that figured to hold an additional layer of heartfelt significance. With only a half-quarter remaining in an already-decided game, the Cleveland Cavaliers’ audience — through both a rousing “We Want Bronny” chant, and a subsequent standing ovation — made it clear where that atmosphere lied on October 30, 2024. Straight-faced and composed amidst emotion, the No. 55 pick played his part in fulfilling the people’s request, first with a shifty switch-hand dribble on a screen rejection, opening the floodgates for an inside-the-arc, one-on-one situation. Deceptive in a raise-up likely to evoke similarities to his Hall of Fame-bound father, the Akron-born rookie elevates into a 14-footer, electrifying a crowd best described as both a “road arena,” yet a home one all the same. Among the night’s most-discussed, even in the Los Angeles Lakers’ defeat, James commanded headlines through an eventual two-point, two-assist, one-steal showing in just five minutes.

Bronny James

When the offense runs like a well-oiled machine, everybody eats. Los Angeles Lakers forward Markieff Morris cuts backdoor to provide a pass target for teammate LeBron James then stuffs home a one-handed dunk in an April 30, 2021 contest against the Sacramento Kings.

Built to handle the metaphorical "chess matches" and mental games of the professional level immediately upon arrival, Dalton Knecht needed just one regular-season game to confirm the somewhat already-known. The nickname may be “Knecht Four,” but, given a little space, the Los Angeles Lakers will gladly take the challenge of also connecting for three. A relative splitting image of his new head coach upon pairing his teammate’s screen with a perfectly-timed float towards the top of the arc, the No. 17 pick cashes in on a wide-open catch-and-shoot 3-pointer, capturing his first-ever NBA points. Immediate in leaving analysts to wonder if opposing GMs might regret allowing him to slide, Knecht, in a well-used 16 minutes of action, turned in five points (on two-of-four shooting), one rebound, two assists, one steal, and one trifecta. Knecht’s efforts were accompanied by good fortunes, as the Lakers overcame the Minnesota Timberwolves’ pesky play for a season-opening win on October 22, 2024.

For one night, the Los Angeles Lakers’ bench outscored the starting lineup. Austin Reaves had a little something to do with that. Reaves had the best performance of his two-year career against the Orlando Magic, dribbling and spinning his way into the lane before connecting on a fadeaway from the elbow over Markelle Fultz. The undrafted Reaves poured in a career-best 35 points — 9 of 14 from the field and 16 of 18 at the foul line — to go with six rebounds and six assists in a 30-minute run off the bench as the Lakers defeated the Magic 111-105 on March 19, 2023. 

Consult the NBA’s all-time history books, and they’ll confirm that there are two things LeBron James has been elite at from the moment he arrived: climbing the leaderboards and climbing the ladder. Camped along the defense’s weak side with the opportunity to deliver an early-game message quickly looming, the 20-year veteran rotates into the paint to challenge the Denver Nuggets’ cut to the rim. Timing his leap through the air perfectly, James wins the high-profile, at-the-rim battle against Jamal Murray, swatting the dunk attempt away with emphasis before capping the moment with a celebratory staredown. Ultimately falling one bucket shy in the two-point defeat, James remained a must-watch during the Game Two thriller on April 22, 2024. Active and productive across the board, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar put together 26 points, eight rebounds, 12 assists, two steals, two blocks, and three 3-pointers.

Match LeBron James and the Golden State Warriors on the floor together, and be prepared for unlimited fireworks. Amped up for a “Rivals Week” duel against his storied rival, the 20-year veteran turned back the clock as only he could. Somehow finding a record he hadn’t broken just yet, the Los Angeles Lakers star pivoted into postseason form early, turning in 36 points, his career’s first-ever 20-rebound game, 12 assists, and a pair of 3-pointers. Fighting off the fatigue of a double overtime slugfest, James summoned the energy needed to guarantee a victory, scoring or assisting on 19 of the Lakers’ 27 points in overtime, fueling a win in one of the 2023-24 season’s most competitive battles.

It did not take Jarred Vanderbilt very long to make a strong impression with his new team. In his fifth game with the Los Angeles Lakers after being acquired in a trade, Vanderbilt stepped into a passing lane between Tim Hardaway Jr. and Luka Dončić to earn a steal and then saved the ball from sailing out of bounds by flipping an overhead pass with his back turned to an in-transition Troy Brown Jr. for a fastbreak layup. Vanderbilt connected on 6 of his 8 field goals for 15 points to go with 17 rebounds and four steals as the Lakers outlasted the Dallas Mavericks 111-108 on February 26, 2023.

In welcoming one of the Western Conference’s powerhouses on the final night of their six-game homestand, Austin Reaves ensured that the Minnesota Timberwolves dealt with a “road trip” in more ways than one. Ideal in his mixture of craft and creativity, the talented Los Angeles Lakers swingman forces a defender to buckle his seatbelt, first pumping on the breaks on a smooth behind-the-back dribble and then with a swiftly-timed spin move, carving the path for a wide-open finger roll, bringing the crowd to its feet. Reaves’ intuitive handle consistently allowed him to provide the perfect complementary attack, joining each of the Lakers’ starters in double-figures with 19 points, six rebounds, four assists, and three 3-pointers, pivotal in helping influence a signature primetime win on March 10, 2024.

In dire need of a jolt with their in-city rivals seeking to extend their losing streak, LeBron James reinvigorated the Los Angeles Lakers through a tried-and-true formula: the coast-to-coast fastbreak dunk. Reacting quickly in turning his teammate’s deflection into a steal, the 20-time All-Star turns back the clock, taking the ball the length of the floor before taking flight for a vintage one-handed tomahawk slam over a LA Clippers star. Unbothered by the opposition’s new star power, James proved to be the star of the show in the three-point victory on January 7, 2024, recording 25 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, one steal, and one 3-pointer.

You know what Austin Reaves is capable of with the ball in his hands but the third-year man is just getting started. Reading the rim off a teammate’s miss in the closing seconds of a first-half battle, Reaves soars through the paint and throws down a putback dunk. Reaves flirted with a triple-double in the November 6, 2023 contest, piling up 23 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists for the Los Angeles Lakers.

Rui Hachimura’s reputation for raising his play in big-time situations just continues to grow. Remaining patient as the Oklahoma City Thunder’s defense loads to the opposite side, Hachimura frees himself up on a backdoor cut before stretching out to deliver a contested, one-handed flush. With his teammates calling it a “must-win game,” Hachimura rose, literally and figuratively, to the occasion, anchoring the Los Angeles Lakers’ second unit with 21 points, six rebounds and three 3-pointers on December 23, 2023.

Rui Hachimura

The list of scenarios opponents hope to avoid when playing the purple-and-gold runs quite long. In losing a race in transition, the Utah Jazz, inevitably, managed to run into two of them at once: the Los Angeles Lakers during In-Season Tournament play, and LeBron James with a head of steam in the open floor. In Year 22, and still a top-of-the-world presence when focused in on a fastbreak opportunity, James breaks into a full sprint, helping Los Angeles exploit a three-on-two advantage before Drew Eubanks can get adjusted. Taking a temporary break from his trademark tomahawk, James pulls a switch-hand lefty jam from his arsenal, propelling the Lakers to both a 19-point lead and eventually, a 7-0 all-time record in NBA Cup contests. Orchestrating an alley-oop connection to his fellow All-NBA teammate just one possession prior, James made aerial attacks a go-to on November 19, 2024, as he compiled a 26-point, 12-assist double-double — ninth-most in NBA history — alongside two rebounds and a 3-pointer.

With a tireless energy and determination befitting that of the NBA’s all-time greatest rivalry, Jaxson Hayes timed up his jumps in the same manner that he timed up his breakout performance with the Los Angeles Lakers: perfectly. Battling improbable odds with four different Boston Celtics jerseys crowding his attempt to crash the glass, the highflying big impacts the ball’s trajectory just enough to force an advantageous bounce before corralling the rebound himself on the way to an and-one finish. Hayes’ ambition and physical gifts helped the shorthanded Lakers survive the loss of their All-Star tandem on the way to an upset win in primetime on February 1, 2024. Rewarding the trust of his coaches, Hayes was superb with 16 points, 10 rebounds, two assists, and three steals.

Jaxson Hayes

Known for his physical dominance in the paint and soft touch around the rim, Deandre Ayton brought the Lakers faithful to their feet early in Sacramento. With the Lakers trailing in a heated division matchup at Golden 1 Center, Gabe Vincent spotted Ayton rolling to the rim and delivered a perfect lob that the 7-footer snatched out of the air and threw down with authority. 

Deandre Ayton

Marcus Smart's defensive reputation often overshadows his playmaking, but the veteran guard sees every angle on the floor. Deadlocked at 30 in the second quarter against Boston on January 18, 2026, Smart surveys the defense and spots Deandre Ayton rolling hard to the rim. The point guard floats a perfectly-weighted lob that Ayton corrals and finishes with a crafty alley-oop layup. Smart contributed 8 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists as the Lakers cruised to a 110-93 victory.

Marcus Smart

When Luka Doncic surveys the floor with the ball in his hands, defenses hold their breath knowing any slight overhelp will be punished. Early in the Lakers' home win over Miami, the maestro whips a laser to Rui Hachimura stationed in the left corner. Hachimura caught and fired in rhythm, burying the three-pointer to extend LA's early cushion as the Crypto.com Arena crowd roared its approval. Doncic orchestrated his way to a 29-point, 11-rebound, 10-assist triple-double in the Lakers' 130-120 victory on November 2, 2025.

On November 15, 2025, the defensive-minded forward Adou Thiero finally stepped into his NBA dream. Making his long-awaited debut against Milwaukee, the 6'7" rookie needed just one possession to announce his arrival. With the Lakers cruising late in the fourth, Bronny James whipped a perfect pass to a streaking Thiero, who rose up and hammered home a running flush for his first NBA bucket.

Adou Thiero

It might’ve been difficult to comprehend over their fired-up home crowd, but in a season-opening win on October 22, 2024, Jaxson Hayes and the Los Angeles Lakers left behind quite the message. None, perhaps, were as crystal clear as the 72 paint points that they compiled on 2023-24's third-best interior defense. Paramount in his role, Hayes inadvertently introduces chaos, following a screen that leaves two players grounded, and the Minnesota Timberwolves’ defense scrambling to recover. Comfortable leaving the play’s end result to both a trusted go-to scoring method and lob-passing teammate, Hayes begins his rim-run, ultimately extending to the perfect spot for a one-handed alley-oop jam, bringing the arena to its feet. A well-known above-the-rim threat long before, Hayes shined on the nationally-televised stage, tallying 10 points (on a near-perfect four-of-five shooting), alongside four rebounds and one rejection.

Some players thrive under pressure, and Luka Dončić lives for these moments. With the shot clock winding down and the Lakers clinging to a late lead on January 6, 2026 in New Orleans, Dončić created space with his signature hesitation dribble. The Slovenian superstar rose up from 31 feet and drained a pullup three-pointer with two minutes remaining, extending the Lakers' advantage to nine points and effectively sealing the game. Dončić's clutch shooting capped a 30-point, 10-assist performance as Los Angeles escaped with a 111-103 victory at Smoothie King Center.

When shooters get hot, teammates know exactly where to find them. Late in the fourth quarter of the Lakers' November 3, 2025 road game at Portland, Deandre Ayton recognized Nick Smith Jr. spotting up well beyond the arc. The big man fired a pass to Smith Jr., who caught and released from 28 feet out without hesitation, burying his fifth triple of the night. Smith Jr.'s sharpshooting display included 25 points on 10-of-15 shooting with an impressive 5-of-6 from deep, though Los Angeles fell 123-115 at Moda Center.

Nick Smith Jr.

The rarely-used celebration of choice, for LeBron James, may have required a metaphorical “dusting off,” but given his role as the late-game hero for a second consecutive night,  the 20-time All-Star’s comfort and command in crunchtime, unquestionably, remained as polished as ever. One bucket shy of navigating the Los Angeles Lakers through a competitive back-to-back set, the 40-year-old superstar prepares to match its energy with back-to-back 3-pointers, using first a pick-and-roll, encouraging a switch that presents a more advantageous isolation. Acutely aware of how respected his downhill drives remain, even in Year 22, James turns a could-be attack into an advantage, forcing Yves Missi to subtly retreat before burying a dagger trifecta. The game-clinching bucket encouraged James’ “Silencer” celebration, more frequently seen during his early-2010s South Beach tenure. Perfectly complementing his NBA Cup performance just one day prior, James turned a 15-point deficit into a come-from-behind victory over the New Orleans Pelicans, recording a 21-point, seven-rebound, five-assist, one-steal, two-triple effort on November 16, 2024.

If 2024-25’s unpredictable regular-season slate has taught any lesson, it’s that playing against a team missing its All-Star leader — or perhaps two of them, in the Los Angeles Lakers’ case — doesn’t ensure any sort of surefire edge. Finding that statement to be twice as true with a No. 3 option of Austin Reaves’ caliber, the seemingly-shorthanded Lakers watched as the still-ascending fourth-year guard embraced the "Batman" role, introducing the Indiana Pacers’ defense to his full rolodex. The night’s itinerary included stop-and-pop triples with sprinkles of that deceptive, quietly-elite handle of the basketball, quick-handed pickpockets that encouraged one-man fastbreak flushes, and ultimately, an unguardable blend of three-level scoring. Rocketed to a different level since adding an arm sleeve to his on-court ensemble, Los Angeles’ star guard seized control of February 8, 2025’s spotlight, erupting for a career-best 45 points, seven rebounds, seven assists, and three steals. Reaves’ performance also went complemented by brilliant efficiency from the field (14-of-26), from deep (four-of-nine), and from the charity stripe (13-of-13), as the Lakeshow cruised to a fifth-straight win.

Factoring in trades both successful and unsuccessful, the Los Angeles Lakers left the NBA’s 2025 trade deadline with starpower and intrigue, but also a pressing question: who among their frontcourt would rise to the occasion? On February 4, 2025, Trey Jemison III used his 6-foot-11 frame and penchant for around-the-rim play to make his case. Ahead by 27, and knowing victory to be all but secured, Jemison and the Lakers’ reserves put positive play on film, working a series of screens and cuts to leave the L.A. Clippers’ defense overwhelmed. Reunited alongside a celebrated South Bay Laker teammate on the G League circuit, Jemison tests the chemistry in a regular-season setting, using a well-timed cut to set up a forceful one-handed flush. Something of a good luck charm, given the Lakers’ 9-0 record in games he plays in, Jemison used a five-minute cameo to record a two-point, four-rebound, one-steal tally.

Trey Jemison III

Rui Hachimura's improved chemistry with Austin Reaves has added a dynamic vertical element to the Lakers' offense. With less than a minute left in the third quarter, Reaves collects himself after a wild sequence, spotted Hachimura cutting to the basket and lofted a perfect alley-oop pass that Rui hammered home, pushing the Lakers' lead to 106-92 over Minnesota. Hachimura's efficient night included 23 points on 77% shooting as the Lakers cruised to a 128-110 victory on October 24, 2025.

Marcus Smart continues to prove that championship DNA travels with you, bringing his trademark defensive intensity to the Los Angeles Lakers. The veteran guard ripped the ball away from Anthony Edwards and found Reaves in transition while still on the groud in the second quarter against Minnesota, coming away with one of his two steals on the night. Though Smart's stat line was modest with 3 points and 1 assist, his defensive presence helped fuel the Lakers' dominant 128-110 victory over the Timberwolves on October 24, 2025.

Nature and animal-based TV networks could create full-length documentaries out of Luka Dončić’s predator-like hunt for fruitful matchups through pick-and-rolls, and given the postseason’s possession-by-possession style, it was only a matter of time before a reacquainting with Rudy Gobert would arrive. Eager to test his isolation chops against the four-time Defensive Player of the Year once more, Dončić brings the Minnesota Timberwolves’ star to the dancefloor, first working a series of between-the-leg dribbles to carve out a left-side driving lane. Donning his trademark smile before a shot attempt even goes airborne, Dončić finishes the sequence patiently, freezing Gobert with a pump fake before rainbowing home a soft-touch floater. Through a strong Game Two response, the Los Angeles Lakers ensured that Dončić’s dominant individual performance went accompanied by a series-tying performance on April 22, 2025. Becoming just the third-ever playoff Laker to produce back-to-back 30-point opens, Dončić’s final box score included 31 points, 12 rebounds, nine assists, one block, and two 3-pointers.

When Austin Reaves finds rhythm from deep, defenders had better start praying. With the Lakers clinging to a four-point lead late in the fourth quarter against Philadelphia, Reaves created space with his signature stepback at the right wing. The Arkansas native calmly drilled a 26-foot triple that pushed the lead to seven with under eleven minutes remaining, part of an explosive 35-point performance on 70.6% shooting. Reaves torched the Sixers for five three-pointers in just 25 minutes on February 5, 2026.

Austin Reaves has emerged as one of the Lakers' go-to scorers, and this bucket shows exactly why. With Los Angeles trailing by seven in the third quarter at Scotiabank Arena, the crafty guard creates separation with his footwork near the elbow. He spins into a turnaround fadeaway that kisses off the glass and drops through, part of an unconscious shooting display that had even the road crowd buzzing. Reaves erupted for a 44 points on 13-of-21 shooting to go with 10 assists in the December 4, 2024 thriller.

Jake LaRavia brings a unique blend of athleticism and court awareness that makes him a perfect fit for the Lakers' transition game. Early in the first quarter against Memphis, LaRavia and LeBron James put together a textbook transition give and go. The versatile forward gathered the return pass in stride and threw down a powerful running slam that brought Crypto.com Arena to its feet. LaRavia finished with 21 points and 9 boards as the Lakers cruised to a 128-121 victory on January 2, 2026.

Jake LaRavia

Replacing the production of a 21-time All-Star who also doubles as a top-of-the-league passer and cutter is easier said than done, but with fittingly-unspoken chemistry in their first-ever start together, Dalton Knecht and his all-world teammate liked their odds. Sprung free on a pindown screen, Knecht races atop the 3-point arc in hopes of creating something similar for his floor general on a pick-and-roll. Ghost-like in how quickly his slip towards the rim arrives, Knecht — paired with his teammate’s heads-up, in-stride dime — parlays the opportunity into perhaps a tribute-paying tomahawk jam over a pair of Brooklyn Nets defenders. Continuity would eventually win out on the scoreboards, as the Brooklyn Nets’ chemistry and late-game execution allowed them to overcome a talented Los Angeles Lakers group using seldom-seen lineup combinations. A standout nonetheless, Knecht matched heightened expectations with elevation of his own, and a box score that included 19 points (on 8-of-18 shooting), four rebounds, three 3-pointers, and a team-high +10 plus-minus in 41 minutes.

One point shy of becoming the NBA’s first-ever to cross the 50,000-point career scoring barrier, LeBron James stepped to March 4, 2025’s stage prepared to do what he often does: break records, and add a bit more on top. Unnoticed from across the floor as teammates work a pick-and-roll that occupies the New Orleans Pelicans’ weakside defenders, James —  poetically receiving a pass from a player he’ll someday pass Los Angeles’ “torch” to —  preps for a catch-and-shoot. Pairing his new, one-of-a-kind longevity statistic with a fitting long-range bomb to match, James buries a triple, prompting the admiration of the already-aware home crowd. The beauty was, James still had three quarters to add to the historic 50,002-point (regular season plus postseason) tally, and the Los Angeles Lakers’ star did just that during a seventh-straight victory. The final box score included a 34-point, eight-rebound, six-assist, one-steal, two-block masterpiece, bolstered by outstanding efficiency overall (10-of-18), from deep (5-of-10), and from the free throw line (nine-of-nine). Along the way, James joined his new, similarly-transcendent teammate in becoming the Lakers’ first-ever duo to produce a 30-point, five-triple game simultaneously.

Somewhere between underdog and favorite, depending on one’s perspective, the Los Angeles Lakers —  in theory, at least — could find comfort in knowing they had the experience edge against their up-and-coming NBA Cup opponent on November 29, 2024. In great irony, though, one could argue that their biggest boost arrived through a player that had never experienced the high-stakes pressures before. Both ahead of his time, and in this case, ahead of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s fastbreak defense, Dalton Knecht illustrates on-floor IQ, racing to position himself for a two-on-two showcase against Jalen Williams and Cason Wallace. Unflinchingly confident, even after getting the short end of the around-the-rim stick earlier, the Lakers’ No. 17 pick prepares for liftoff, denoting over the NBA’s No. 1-ranked defense with a two-handed poster flush. Knecht’s efforts proved valiant, even in a loss that ended Los Angeles’ In-Season Tournament repeat aspirations. In leading the purple-and-gold in the scoring column, Knecht accumulated 20 points, six rebounds, four assists, and six 3-pointers, affording himself a second-straight 20-point outburst.

Added pressures notwithstanding, players are hard-pressed to complain if the NBA’s annual trade deadline allows them to step right into an immediate role for a postseason-contending team. Through a series of quick, deceptively-used steps along the left baseline against the Houston Rockets’ elite defense, Dorian Finney-Smith showed the Los Angeles Lakers just how appreciative he was for the opportunity on January 5, 2025. Long respected for his ability to net the corner 3-pointer, Finney-Smith parlays it advantageously, leaving Steven Adams flat-footed and dispositioned as he attacks downhill. Keeping his intentions hidden once more, Finney-Smith outfoxes the highflying Jalen Green, using a double-clutch reverse finish to help Los Angeles stay within striking distance. With new pieces gelling, the Lakers couldn’t overcome the Western Conference’s No. 2 seed on their home floor, but Finney-Smith left both defenders and memorable impressions, recording 13 points (on five-of-nine shooting), two rebounds, two assists, two steals, and two 3-pointers.

Dorian Finney-Smith

Even at this stage of his legendary career, LeBron James can still turn routine transition opportunities into highlight-reel material. Midway through the second quarter on December 28, 2025, the four-time champion filled the lane perfectly as Luka Dončić pushed the pace. The former Mavericks star found LeBron with a perfectly-timed feed, and the King took flight for a spectacular running reverse dunk that had the Crypto.com Arena crowd on its feet. James finished with 24 points on an ultra-efficient 11-of-13 shooting in the Lakers' 125-101 victory.

You can't teach clutch, but allow Austin Reaves to demonstrate. With the Lakers trailing by one and just seconds remaining in Minnesota, the Arkansas native takes matters into his own hands. He drives hard into the paint and releases and hits a floating jumper from 12 feet as time expires, sending the Lakers bench into a frenzy. Reaves caps a brilliant 28-point, 16-assist performance to lift LA to a 116-115 victory on October 29, 2025.

It’s sometimes said that humans become the “sum” of the five people they spend the most time with. If said quote is true on the basketball court, Rui Hachimura stands to benefit immensely, given the number of all-world shot creators often alongside him. Free to test the depths of his creativity after encouraging Haywood Highsmith to bite on his pump fake, Hachimura threatens a drive, prompting the gravitational pull of all five Miami Heat defenders at once. Metamorphosing into some blend of pass-first Los Angeles Lakers legends of both past and present, Hachimura gathers into an in-air, no-look dime, freezing Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Tyler Herro just effectively enough to hit a teammate for a corner trifecta. Knowing L.A. to be in need of some semblance of rhythm, Hachimura offered his hand in victory through a 23-point contribution (on 9-of-15 shooting), accompanied by eight rebounds, one steal, and two 3-pointers on January 15, 2025.

To make one’s claim as perhaps the greatest, longest-enduring statistical talent in the NBA’s history, it’s only inevitable that at some point, a trademark, career-defining signature move will come about. Over a seven-second span, LeBron James introduced the Memphis Grizzlies to two of them from his toolbox over the last 22 seasons. Plenty capable of soaring with the best of them, even at an advanced age, James commands the highlight reel’s investment, first by punishing Memphis’ disorganized transition defense through a powerful, go-to tomahawk jam. Recognizing Desmond Bane’s desire to offer a quick rebuttal, James — one step behind in his defensive tracking — hustles into the angle needed for a chasedown block, flawlessly sending a two-way message early into December 15, 2024’s game. The first game back was a productive one for the multi-time Most Valuable Player, as he stuffed the box score with 18 points, eight rebounds, eight assists, one steal, two blocks, and three 3-pointers, ultimately steering victory against a familiar foe.

$54 million richer after signing a four-year extension in 2023, Austin Reaves was unlikely to find much he couldn’t buy himself for the holidays. Though, having a game-winning layup and a triple-double tucked under December 25, 2024’s tree certainly made for a thoughtful gift from the basketball gods. Playing with fire after watching his team’s nine-point lead in the final minute-and-a-half diminish into a tie, Reaves showcases the ice in his veins, readying himself for a game-deciding mano-a-mano against Andrew Wiggins. Swift in his first step, Reaves gets just the opening needed to close the door on the Golden State Warriors in style, working a heavy-traffic, underhanded finger roll off the glass to secure a victory. Nearly brought to tears at the postgame presser that followed, Reaves was nothing short of historic in the Los Angeles Lakers’ storybook win. The final tally included 26 points (on 8-of-20 shooting), 10 rebounds, and 10 assists — the 10th-ever triple-double on Christmas — alongside one steal and four 3-pointers.

Making the most of his limited minutes, the Lakers sophomore guard delivered a memorable moment late in the November matchup against the Utah Jazz. With Los Angeles cruising to a victory, James caught a pass from Jake LaRavia and confidently launched and connected on a deep three-pointer from 28 feet. James finished with 3 points and 2 assists in the November 18, 2024 Lakers victory.

Take your pick at an all-time playoff record, and with nearly 300 games under his belt, it’s likely that LeBron James’ name settles atop the leaderboard. Calming in his presence during the Los Angeles Lakers’ must-win Game Two, James introduces the Minnesota Timberwolves to two of the statistics he ranks No. 1 in — points and steals — first through a heady pickpocket of Anthony Edwards’ dribble. Eyeballing open-floor opportunities before Minnesota can react, James gets a 22-year boulder rolling downhill, shouldering through Naz Reid and Nickeil Alexander-Walker for a heavily-contested layup through traffic. James discussed Los Angeles’ need to be physical against the Wolves’ fifth-ranked resistance, and in a series-tying victory, the former four-time NBA champion did just that on April 22, 2025. Enjoying what became the first-ever 20-10-5 statline by a 40-year-old during the NBA’s “second season,” James produced 21 points, 11 rebounds, seven assists, one steal, one block, and a 3-pointer across a grueling 40-minute duel. 

March 27, 2025’s top-fold story might’ve preferred a different improbable toss of the basketball, but through his own 12-assist effort, LeBron James made certain that audacious accuracy could be found within both teams’ highlight reels. As if they were running wind sprints during a training camp practice, James’ Lakers lead an almost-symmetrical five-on-two fastbreak with plans of overwhelming the Chicago Bulls’ transition defense. Swinging the basketball as if it were a bag for a hiking trail, James makes magic happen through a no-look, over-the-torso dime to his rim-running teammate for an outstanding open-floor sequence. It took a series of anomalies — namely a five-point comeback in the final 15 seconds, and a 47-foot prayer — for Chicago to secure an unforgettable win, but, as is often the case, James’ box score was brilliant nonetheless. The versatile 21-time All-Star tallied up 17 points, five rebounds, 12 assists, and two steals on the second night of a fast-paced back-to-back.

Known for his rim protection and vertical explosiveness, Jaxson Hayes brings a different dimension to the Lakers' frontcourt rotation. Trailing by two in the third quarter at Phoenix, Hayes sprinted the floor in transition and received a feed from Jake LaRavia, converting a running dunk from point-blank range with 2:24 remaining in the period. The athletic center finished with a perfect 4-for-4 shooting night, adding 12 points, 9 rebounds and 2 assists in the December 14, 2024 road contest.

April 9, 2025’s spectacle against his former team might’ve began with heartfelt embraces and teardrops, but as is often the case with Luka Dončić, the forecast also called for 45-point rainstorms and almost-one-of-a-kind offense along the way. The recipe towards becoming just league history’s second-ever player to score 45+ for and against the same franchise in a single season was one that the Dallas Mavericks’ still-stunned crowd had come to know all too well over Dončić’s 472-game Texas reign. 3-point buckets — some built through immaculate footwork, others through mere spot-ups — crafty, almost “HORSE”-like shots around the rim, and ultimately, a final quarter takeover that vanquished any chance Dallas had of an upset. In what settled among 2024-25’s most-watched non-Christmas Day games, Dončić, through mixed emotions, treated fans of every allegiance to a 45-point, eight-rebound, six-assist, four-steal masterpiece in the Los Angeles Lakers’ victory. Paired with superb efficiency overall (16-of-28) and from downtown (7-of-10), Dončić again reaffirmed his status as a big-stage performer, eventually helping catapult L.A. to the No. 3 seed in the soon-arriving 2025 NBA Playoffs.

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$411 Moment

hidden in these packs