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The Los Angeles Lakers’ 2026-27 schedule features several major games for Luka Doncic as he begins his first season leading the franchise without LeBron James.

Los Angeles opens against Stephen Curry and the Warriors on Oct. 21. New center Walker Kessler then returns to Utah on Oct. 25 to face his former team.

Doncic will meet Victor Wembanyama and the defending Western Conference champion Spurs on Nov. 27 before the Lakers face Anthony Edwards, LaMelo Ball and the Timberwolves twice in December.

The biggest matchup comes on Christmas Day, when James returns to Los Angeles with the 76ers for his first game against his former team.

Other notable games include the Celtics on Jan. 7 and the Thunder on Jan. 26. Oklahoma City dominated Los Angeles last season before sweeping the Lakers from the playoffs.

Doncic will also visit the defending champion Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Jan. 30 before returning to Dallas on Feb. 28 for his third road game against the Mavericks since his blockbuster 2025 trade.

With the roster now built around Doncic, these games will offer major tests for the Lakers throughout their new era.

Marquee games Lakers, Luka Doncic and fans should circle for 2026-27 https://t.co/KRpiV0CkL9 pic.twitter.com/cBMedRUeWP