The NBA released the updated 2026 Draft order after resolving several tiebreakers. The Lakers finished 53-29 but lost the tiebreaker to the New York Knicks, who will draft 24th while Los Angeles picks 25th. The result does not affect the current playoff run or postseason status.
Beyond the series, the Lakers enter an offseason filled with questions about LeBron James’s future, Reaves’s free-agent status, and how to build around Doncic. While a higher pick could have aided prospect evaluation or served as a trade asset, the 2026 class is expected to be strong for potential targets.
In Game 1, James led Los Angeles to a win with solid contributions from Deandre Ayton and Luke Kennard, even as Doncic and Reaves remained out. Kevin Durant sat out due to a knee issue, leaving his status for Game 2 in question. The Lakers remain underdogs as long as Doncic and Reaves are unavailable, though practice showed both could be back at some point.
Game 2 is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. PT on Tuesday, April 21, with NBC and Peacock slated to carry the coverage. The Lakers will look to extend their series lead while awaiting updates on their two star players.
