Magic Johnson believes the Los Angeles Lakers accomplished their offseason goal of becoming younger, more athletic and faster after a major roster overhaul following LeBron James’ departure.
Johnson tweeted on Sunday that the Lakers addressed several key roster needs by adding players such as Walker Kessler, Matisse Thybulle, Collin Sexton and Quentin Grimes. The Hall of Famer highlighted the team’s focus on improving athleticism and defensive versatility around Luka Doncic.
“I said this offseason the Lakers had to get younger, more athletic, and faster, and they did just that,” Johnson wrote. “We got a young, athletic center in Walker Kessler who can score and is a great rim protector, and I was so happy they signed two-time All Defensive player Matisse Thybulle! I’ve enjoyed watching the two young players Collin Sexton and Quentin Grimes. Sexton’s speed and quickness, and Grimes’ scoring and defense make them two great pickups for the Lakers!”
The Lakers entered the offseason after a 53-29 regular season and a Pacific Division title, but their championship run ended with a second-round sweep against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Los Angeles responded by reshaping the roster around Doncic after James left in free agency.
Kessler became the centerpiece of the Lakers’ frontcourt changes. Los Angeles acquired the 25-year-old center from the Utah Jazz and signed him to a four-year, $130 million extension. The move gives Doncic a defensive anchor and lob threat after Deandre Ayton, who averaged 12.5 points and 8.0 rebounds in 72 games during the 2025-26 season, was traded to the Washington Wizards.
During the 2025-26 season, Doncic averaged 33.5 points, 8.3 assists and 7.7 rebounds in 64 games while earning All-NBA First Team honors. The Lakers’ priority was surrounding him with players who can defend, space the floor and provide secondary creation.
Grimes fits that approach after agreeing to a four-year, $60 million contract. The guard averaged 13.4 points, 3.6 rebounds and 3.3 assists in 75 games with the 76ers last season while shooting 45.0% from the field. Sexton adds another ball-handler after averaging 18.0 points and 4.2 assists with Utah in 2025-26.
The Lakers also retained Austin Reaves with a four-year, $185 million extension. Reaves averaged 23.3 points, 5.5 assists and 4.7 rebounds in 51 games last season while shooting 49.0% from the field.
Thybulle gives Los Angeles another perimeter defender. The two-time All-Defensive Team selection joins a roster that also includes defensive-minded players such as Jarred Vanderbilt and Kessler, creating a different identity from the James-led teams of previous seasons.
