Is This the End of the Lakers' Window? A No-Nonsense Look at Their 2027 Plan

The Truth They’re Not Saying

The whispers are louder than ever: it’s not about winning in 2024. The Lakers aren’t chasing rings this year — they’re planning for 2027. And no, that doesn’t mean they’re giving up. It means their window is closing, and they know it.

I’m not saying LeBron James is done — far from it. But when you look at his age, his workload, and how teams like Timberwolves and Thunder are built today? You can’t win without defense. And right now? The trio of LeBron, AD, and D’Angelo Russell just doesn’t cut it.

Why ‘The 27 Plan’ Isn’t Just Fan Fiction

Let’s get real: if you don’t have young defensive wings and a rim-protecting big man who can move with pace, you won’t survive playoff battles. That’s what the NBA says now — coaches say it on TV; GMs whisper it in press rooms.

So why hasn’t LA signed a veteran like Alperen Şengün or Bamba？Why no big commitment to KCP or Big Low? Because they’ve already made their choice: young bodies with upside. Someone who can play alongside Anthony Davis and keep up with Luka Dončić-level intensity.

They want a center who fits beside AD — one who runs fast enough to avoid getting burned on pick-and-rolls but strong enough to hold the paint.

Power Shift Behind Closed Doors

Now here’s where things get spicy — even if only in theory. The new ownership has arrived. And unlike before, there’s no “favors” for old guard execs like Rob Pelinka.

You’ve heard rumors: James wasn’t consulted on team plans… but Anthony Davis was. That’s not paranoia — that’s data points.

AD isn’t going anywhere. He’s too valuable as both athlete and brand asset. So does that mean LeBron has to go? Or maybe younger pieces like Rui Hachimura need to move?

Not likely — not yet anyway. Because fans love LeBron. They love the ‘hero’ story of him playing into his late 40s. Move him now? Chaos erupts in Los Angeles.

So instead: slow burn strategy. Keep James around until he decides retirement himself… let new management grow comfortable… then adjust when emotions cool.

That’s why we hear so much about the 2027 plan — because change is coming… quietly.