The Los Angeles Lakers are comfortable with the roster they have at training camp. That does not mean that it is a finished product, by any means, but that does suggest Rob Pelinka is in a position to step back and assess what is needed from here.
This was a topic discussed by Jovan Buha and Trevor Lane when the two teamed up for a season preview edition of Buha's Block. The host of the show was clear about why patience is important for the Lakers at this stage of the leadup to the start of 2025-26.
Buha said, "I just want to see how they stack up in the West. ... We know what trades they potentially need to make, or probably have to make if they really want to get into that inner circle of contenders. But also, [it's about] just seeing what the needs are."
The example offered by Buha was the backup center position. Most would agree that spot could use help as of now. However, what if Jaxson Hayes or Maxi Kleber step up and really solidify themselves as a reliable backup by February? That takes a major point of concern off the board.
Rob Pelinka must stay patient and let Lakers roster reveal its flaws
There are areas of the team which will immediately stick out as flawed. Adding a two-way wing dominated the rumor mill in early September because it is apparent the Lakers clearly lack someone who is capable of raising the team's ceiling at that spot now. However, life in the NBA changes very quickly.
What if the Lakers pull the trigger on starting Marcus Smart and he proves to be exactly what the first five were missing? Perhaps Rui Hachimura shows clear signs on improvement on the defensive end. Maybe Jake LaRavia establishes himself as a starter through his two-way impact by February.
Something that currently seems like a pressing need would quickly be minimized in its importance if one of those things came to fruition. That is why these things cannot be rushed.
The Lakers have a favorable schedule to start the 2025-26 NBA season. That should allow JJ Redick flexibility in who is deployed on the floor, while the Lakers remain competitive.
In doing so, the Pelinka and the front office should get a comfortable feel for how good this team is, and what needs to be done to make it better. Patience is the name of the game right now. The Lakers cannot afford to squander their limited opportunities for roster improvement.