The NBA playoffs continue to deliver excitement as the second round unfolds, with the Western and Eastern Conference finals taking shape. Currently, the 76ers trail the Knicks 0-4, the Cavaliers are tied 2-2 with the Pistons, the Timberwolves are even 2-2 with the Spurs, and the Lakers have been swept 0-4 by the Thunder. Both the Knicks and Thunder have advanced to their respective conference finals, boosting their championship prospects. In contrast, the 76ers and Lakers have exited in the second round, with their shortcomings exposed. For the Los Angeles Lakers, missing Luka Doncic due to injury, overcoming the first round to challenge the defending champions was already beyond expectations. Being swept by the reigning champs is not dishonorable. In fact, at 41 years old, LeBron James led a depleted Lakers squad with everything he had, earning respect despite the sweep.
The Lakers’ 0-4 sweep by the Thunder marks the team’s second sweep in four years and James’ fourth career sweep. It is also the first time James has been swept in the second round; his previous three sweeps came in the Finals (2007 versus Spurs, 2018 versus Warriors) and the Western Conference Finals (2023 versus Nuggets). Interestingly, each of those teams that swept James went on to win the championship that season. Whether the Thunder can continue that trend remains uncertain, but this series has made it clear that the depleted Lakers are not a true test for the defending champions. The Thunder have exposed the gap between the Lakers and the league’s elite. For the Lakers to be truly competitive in the West, a long and challenging road lies ahead.
After the game, James, who led the team through the playoffs, spoke candidly about three key points. First, he emphasized the team’s resilience amid numerous challenges. “I gave everything I had, controlled what I could. Returning to my familiar role and winning a playoff series felt great. I will never define this season as a failure.” Second, he stated that he has nothing left to prove in the league. “My love for the game drives me, and competing for a championship remains my motivation. My decision to continue playing will be based on my passion for the process, not just the outcome.” Third, he addressed his future: “I don’t know what comes next. I’ll take time to step back, spend time with my family, and make a decision when the time is right. Everyone will know then.”
James is right. Without Doncic, the Lakers surpassed expectations by defeating the Rockets 4-2 in the first round. Without Doncic, they pushed the defending champions to the final possession in Game 4. While series have winners and losers, the spirit displayed by a 41-year-old James and a depleted Lakers squad embodies the essence of the sport. They refused to surrender, winning together and losing together. Moreover, this playoff run provides clear direction for the Lakers’ offseason. General Manager Rob Pelinka must prioritize contract decisions for James, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura.
During the regular season, James stepped back to allow Doncic and Reaves to lead, but with both sidelined in the playoffs, James returned to the spotlight and demonstrated his ability to carry the team. In 10 playoff games, he averaged 38.0 minutes, 23.2 points, 6.7 rebounds, 7.3 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.7 three-pointers per game. While he lacks the explosive scoring of his prime, he remains a reliable primary ball-handler with strong foundational skills, capable of being a valuable third option on a contending team. With his $52.63 million contract expiring, can Pelinka convince James to take a pay cut to stay? It seems likely, given that his son Bronny is still with the Lakers—James would not abandon him.
Reaves returned from injury for the playoffs but struggled. In six games, he averaged 36.7 minutes, 20.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 5.8 assists, 1.2 blocks, and 1.5 three-pointers, shooting 40.7% from the field, 25.7% from deep, and 86.0% from the free-throw line. His inconsistency in high-pressure games and defensive struggles—allowing Thunder second-year second-round pick Isaiah Joe to dominate—will likely reduce his market value. According to NBA salary cap expert Bobby Marks, Reaves is expected to decline his $14.9 million player option for next season, making him eligible for a maximum five-year, $241 million contract. He is not worth the max, but the Lakers cannot let him walk for nothing. A contract averaging $30-35 million per year would be a success, either retaining him or using his salary to match trades for upgrades.
While James and Reaves may need to take pay cuts, Hachimura has earned a raise. In 10 playoff games, he averaged 38.6 minutes, 17.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 3.3 three-pointers (third in the league), shooting 54.9% from the field, 56.9% from three (fourth in the league), and 72.7% from the line. His career playoff three-point percentage of 51.6% ranks first in NBA history. Hachimura, currently earning $18.31 million in his contract year, can sign a maximum five-year, $150 million extension with the Lakers or a four-year, $110 million deal with another team. His consistent and efficient outside shooting perfectly complements Doncic. To ensure he stays, the Lakers should prepare at least a five-year, $120 million contract.
Fans, what do you think? Will Pelinka manage to keep James, Reaves, and Hachimura on the Lakers?