The Los Angeles Lakers enter the 2025-26 season with an eye on history and the future. After a summer dominated by Luka Doncic’s full physical transformation and speculation about the team moving on from LeBron James, expectations have shifted. With a mix of seasoned veterans like James, Marcus Smart, and more, and rising stars such as Luka and Reaves, the roster carries both experience and promise. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this transitional team will navigate the challenges ahead.

Much of the direction and tone for the season will be set on Media Day, where the Lakers officially kick off preparations and unveil key storylines. So when is the Lakers’ Media Day, and what surprises might be in store for the 2025-26 campaign?

When is Lakers Media Day?

The Los Angeles Lakers Media Day for the 2025-26 NBA season is scheduled for September 29, 2025. For the Lakers, the venue is expected to be the same as last year at the UCLA Health Training Center in El Segundo, California. This event officially kicks off the Lakers’ season preparations, followed by training camp. The event will be available on the Lakers’ app and on multiple platforms for fans when LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and JJ Redick address the media.

Following Media Day, the Lakers are expected to be in their El Segundo facility for training camp, focusing on building chemistry between Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and new additions like Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart. GM Rob Pelinka has designed a roster around flexibility with only four players holding contracts beyond this season, leaving room for strategic moves. As Pelinka put it, “If there are smart ways to pour into our championship aspirations for next year, we will execute on those.”

After a first-round playoff exit and a full offseason reset, this group is determined to rewrite the narrative. Media Day not only signals the official return to the spotlight but also kicks off training camp, giving fans their first true look at the 2025-26 squad and what they promise to display in the upcoming season.

What storylines should be expected for NBA Media Day?

JJ Redick’s 50-win debut season turned heads, as the former player-turned-coach brought structure and a modern edge to the Lakers’ offense. But Year 2 is where his coaching acumen will be tested. Also, after last season’s midyear trade, all eyes are on Luka Doncic. The Slovenian star spent the offseason shedding 31 pounds, leading his country to the EuroBasket quarterfinals, and proving once again why he’s one of the game’s premier talents.

Doncic dominated EuroBasket, averaging 34.7 points, 8.6 rebounds, 7.1 assists and earned a spot on the EuroBasket All-Star Five, too. Redick has hinted at an offense built around Luka’s ability to collapse defenses, a strategy Media Day may begin to reveal.

Meanwhile, LeBron James will turn 41 in December, fresh off a 22nd season averaging 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, and 7.8 rebounds. His recent words, “Retirement is coming. It’s coming. It’s just not here yet,” likely signal that the end might be near, but Media Day promises insight into how LA plans to manage this delicate transition.

At EssentiallySports, we feel the Lakers’ Media Day will officially launch what could be the franchise’s most transitional season. With a sharper roster, Luka in peak form, and LeBron navigating his likely farewell campaign, expectations are higher than ever, and they will be hell bent to deliver.