The Los Angeles Lakers are charting a new course, building a younger supporting cast around All-Star Luka Doncic for the 2026-2027 NBA season. The 17-time NBA champions will now rely on the 27-year-old Doncic as their primary star, alongside sharp-shooter Austin Reaves.
Youth Takes Over as Veterans Depart
With the departure of superstar LeBron James and several veteran players, 28-year-old Austin Reaves has become the oldest player in the Lakers' rotation. The new supporting cast includes Walker Kessler (25), Quentin Grimes (26), Collin Sexton (27), and Sandro Mamukelashvili (27).
Last season, the Lakers were surrounded by veterans like LeBron (41), Marcus Smart (32), Maxi Kleber (34), Luke Kennard (30), and Rui Hachimura (28), all of whom are no longer with the team.
Fans Coin 'Unc Austin' Nickname
NBA fans quickly noticed the age shift and have already given Reaves the nickname 'Unc Austin,' as he is now the eldest player in the locker room.
The Lakers aim to return to championship form after a prolonged drought. Their most recent title came in the 2020 NBA season, which was played in a bubble due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to that, the Lakers last won a championship in 2010, led by the late Kobe Bryant alongside Pau Gasol, Derek Fisher, Lamar Odom, and Metta World Peace (then Ron Artest).
