The release of the Los Angeles Lakers’ 2024-25 season schedule has fans excited. The Purple and Gold are set to embark on a new campaign filled with high-stakes matchups, historic celebrations and a relentless pursuit of championship glory.
In total, the Lakers will have 39 nationally televised games, three more than the Golden State Warriors and five more than the defending NBA champions Boston Celtics and New York Knicks.
Here are five unique takeaways from the Lakers’ upcoming season that stand out from the rest.
1. Opening night showdown sets the tone
The Lakers are scheduled to begin their 77th season against the Minnesota Timberwolves on NBA Opening Night on Tuesday, Oct. 22, at Crypto.com Arena.
This game marks more than just the start of a new season: it’s a decisive game. The Timberwolves, led by their young core, will be an early test for the Lakers, eager to prove they are still among the Western Conference’s elite.
A strong start on opening night could set the tone for a season where every game matters, especially with the NBA Cup looming in December.
2. A holiday tradition continues: Christmas Day in the Golden State
Christmas Day games have become synonymous with Lakers basketball, and this year marks their 26th consecutive appearance on December 25.
The Lakers will face the Golden State Warriors, renewing one of the most exciting rivalries in the league. This festive showdown is not just another game on the schedule: it is an opportunity for the Lakers to showcase their talent on the national stage against a formidable opponent.
With a league-high 24 wins on Christmas Day, the Lakers will look to add another victory to their holiday tradition, making this game a must-see.
3. Michael Cooper’s Retirement: A Night of Nostalgia and Legacy
January 13 will be a night of celebration as the Lakers will retire Michael Cooper’s No. 21 jersey when they host the San Antonio Spurs. Cooper, a defensive stalwart during the Lakers’ “Showtime” era, will be honored for his contributions to the franchise’s success, including five championships and numerous defensive awards.
The jersey retirement will not only be a tribute to Cooper’s legacy, but also a reminder of the rich history that continues to inspire the current Lakers roster. It’s sure to be an emotional and nostalgic evening for fans and players alike.
4. A grueling six-game road trip: a mid-season test of resilience
From January 25 to February 4, the Lakers will embark on their longest road trip of the season, spanning six games in 11 days.
This stretch features a mix of tough matchups, starting with the Golden State Warriors and ending with a cross-town showdown against the LA Clippers in their new home inside the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California.
Road trips like this can define a team’s character and cohesion, and the Lakers will have to dig deep to overcome this midseason test. How they fare during this stretch could have a significant impact on their playoff positioning and overall momentum heading into the second half of the season.
5. The Crucial Homestand: An Opportunity to Build Momentum
From February 25 to March 6, the Lakers will enjoy their longest six-game homestand of the season. The 10-day stretch at Crypto.com Arena represents a golden opportunity for the team to build momentum, especially as they prepare for the final step toward the playoffs.
The home season will feature games against the Dallas Mavericks and New York Knicks, two teams that should be very competitive. A win during this period could solidify the Lakers’ position in the Western Conference and allow them to rest and recover before the final stretch of the season.
The season ends in Portland against the Trail Blazers on April 13. The Lakers’ roster is relatively unchanged from last season with the additions of Bronny James, who is expected to spend most of the season in the G-League with the South Bay Lakers, and 2024 first-round NBA draft pick Dalton Knecht.
The biggest change for the Lakers starts at the top with new head coach JJ Redick and his staff. Under a new coach, a new system, and a similar roster, the Lakers will need to improve significantly from last season’s performance to make the playoffs and have another shot at an NBA title.
