Exciting Season Ahead for the Los Angeles Lakers
In what promises to be an exciting season, the Los Angeles Lakers will kick off the 2025-26 NBA year on their home court against the Golden State Warriors on October 21, 2025, as part of a comprehensive schedule announced by the league on Thursday. This season marks a significant milestone for veteran star LeBron James, who is embarking on his historic 23rd season, alongside Luka Doncic, who will be playing his first full season with the Lakers after a notable trade from the Dallas Mavericks.
National Spotlight and Key Matchups
The Lakers, renowned for their star power, will be sharing the spotlight this season, tied with the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Golden State Warriors, and the New York Knicks for the highest number of nationally televised games in the league. NBA fans can catch them face off against the Houston Rockets in a Christmas Day matchup that will occupy a prime 5 p.m. slot on ABC/ESPN.
Significant Returns and NBA Cup Competition
A highly anticipated return will take place on November 28 when Anthony Davis, previously a Lakers player, brings the Mavericks to Crypto.com Arena. This event holds particular significance as it concludes the NBA Cup group stage, during which Davis was unable to compete last season due to injury when he made his anticipated return to the Laker home court.
As part of the NBA Cup competition, which enters its third season this year, the Lakers are set to begin on October 31, facing the Memphis Grizzlies. Their group, known as West Group B, also features the New Orleans Pelicans, the Los Angeles Clippers, and the Mavericks themselves. Following their opener, the Lakers will take on the Pelicans on November 14, and they will meet the Clippers in an Inglewood game on November 25 at 8 p.m. PST, marking it as the latest start time for any game in the in-season tournament.
Grammy Road Trip and Home Stand Highlights
The Lakers are also set for their customary Grammy road trip, which will feature a game against the Clippers on January 22 and spans a difficult two weeks. The trip will include matches in Denver and Dallas before returning for an extensive eight-game home stand. This homestand is highlighted by a significant matchup against the Boston Celtics on February 22, which will coincide with the unveiling of a statue honoring Pat Riley outside of Crypto.com Arena. The Hall of Fame coach is celebrated for his pivotal role in leading the Lakers to four NBA championships during the iconic Showtime era.
Preseason and Future Games
Prior to the season start, training camp will commence on September 29, followed by six preseason games, including a contest against the Suns on October 3 in Palm Springs and another clash with Doncic’s Mavericks in Las Vegas on October 15. This schedule is shaping up to create a thrilling atmosphere for Lakers supporters.
The NBA plans to release two additional regular-season games in December, contingent on the standings of the NBA Cup, with the knockout rounds set to commence on December 9, 2025.
