The Lakers new season schedule is released: star-studded, long journey to the championship

On August 15, the full schedule of the NBA 2025-26 season was announced, and the Lakers' schedule instantly became the focus of fans. In the new season, the Lakers tied for the league with the Thunder, Warriors and Knicks for 34 national live broadcasts, which shows their high attention in the league. However, this schedule has both star-studded dialogues and difficulties and obstacles, which can be said to be a coexistence of opportunities and challenges. In the opening game of the season, the Lakers ushered in a peak showdown with the Warriors at home. This game will undoubtedly ignite the enthusiasm of fans and set the tone for the Lakers' journey in the new season. Throughout October, the schedule was compact and challenging, and the competition with the Timberwolves, Kings, Trail Blazers, Grizzlies and other teams tested the Lakers' lineup running-in and tactical execution.

Entering November, the Lakers' opponents are even stronger. The Heat, Spurs, Hawks, Bulls, Thunder and other teams should not be underestimated in every game. It is worth mentioning that the third week of November ushered in "offseason week", with a home game against the Jazz on only 18 from November 15 to 23, which allowed the Lakers to make appropriate efforts in the first 14 games to reserve energy for the subsequent schedule. The December schedule is a prelude to the "Devil's schedule", with strong teams such as the Suns, Raptors, Celtics, and 76ers appearing one after another. And the year-end battle on the 25th, the Lakers' home game against the Rockets is undoubtedly a focus battle that has attracted worldwide attention. This game is not only a direct conversation between the two powerful teams, but also carries the fans' expectations for a wonderful basketball feast.

The Lakers will play back-to-back games in the new season, once more than last season. The most difficult back-to-back appearance occurred in March, away against the Nuggets on the 5th, away against the Pacers on the 6th, and away against the Pacers on the 18th, and away against the Heat on the 19th. Such a close schedule is a huge test for the players' physical fitness and mental state.

From December 24 to January 4, the Lakers played five consecutive home games, which is an excellent opportunity for the team to win a winning streak and boost morale. But immediately afterwards, from January 20 to February 3, the Lakers will usher in the longest eighth consecutive rides with a flight range of about 43,000 miles. Although 1,000 miles less than last season, this long road trip puts higher demands on the team's adaptability and team cohesion.

In addition to the tense schedule, the Lakers also have a big news. Pat Riley’s statue will be unveiled outside the Crypto Arena before the Feb. 22 match against the Celtics. Riley has coached the Lakers and won the championship four times, 2 of which were won by defeating the Celtics. This moment is not only a tribute to Riley's outstanding coaching career, but also a touch of added highlight to the Lakers' historical heritage.

Judging from the live broadcasts, the Thunder, Warriors, Lakers and Knicks tied for the league with 34 live broadcasts in the United States, demonstrating their status as a giant and broad influence. The 28 games between the Timberwolves and the Rockets, as well as the live broadcasts of teams such as the Nuggets and Celtics, also reflect the level of attention each team has received in the league.

In the new season, 48% of the Lakers' games are scheduled for weekends, which is undoubtedly a blessing for fans and will give more people the opportunity to enjoy the wonderful games of the Lakers. For the team, playing during the prime time of the weekend also means greater pressure and higher expectations.

In terms of personnel, Doncic vowed to start a journey of revenge after losing weight, and 40-year-old James will start his 23rd season in his career. Their goal with all Lakers is still the championship. Faced with such a challenging schedule, can Dong Zhan lead the team to overcome difficulties, achieve excellent results, and finally win the O'Brien Cup? All fans will wait and see to witness the Lakers' wonderful performance in the new season.