Even in the wake of LeBron James's departure, the Los Angeles Lakers are poised to command significant national television attention during the upcoming 2026-27 NBA season. The league clearly anticipates that the team, now under the leadership of Luka Doncic, will continue to draw substantial viewership, a testament to the franchise's enduring popularity and the star power of its new leader.
Lakers' 2026-27 Season: A National Spotlight Beyond LeBron
The Los Angeles Lakers are gearing up for their first season since 2017-18 without the iconic presence of LeBron James. However, the NBA's scheduling decisions indicate that the franchise, now headlined by Luka Doncic, is still regarded as one of its most compelling national attractions. The Lakers are slated to appear in an impressive 34 nationally televised games for the 2026-27 season, a figure that ties them with the New York Knicks, San Antonio Spurs, and Philadelphia 76ers for the league lead.
Their national broadcast schedule is diverse, featuring 10 games on NBC, 10 on Prime Video, nine on ESPN, and five on ABC. The Lakers' season tips off on October 21st, with a high-profile clash against the Golden State Warriors at the Crypto.com Arena, broadcast live on ESPN. Following this opener, two more nationally televised contests are scheduled for the same month, pitting them against Portland and then once again facing the Golden State Warriors.
A particularly anticipated date on the calendar is Christmas Day, which will see LeBron James make his return to Los Angeles, albeit as a member of the Philadelphia 76ers. This special game will not only mark his initial encounter with his former team but also his first professional matchup against his son, Bronny. A rematch between the Lakers and the 76ers is set for March 4th in Philadelphia, also expected to be a nationally televised event.
Beyond these marquee matchups, the Lakers are also scheduled for nationally broadcast games against several other top contenders, including the reigning champion Knicks, the Spurs, and the Celtics. This extensive national television exposure, despite James's move, underscores the league's belief that Luka Doncic and the revamped Lakers roster will continue to captivate a broad audience and deliver high ratings.
The persistent prominence of the Los Angeles Lakers in national television programming, even after the exit of a generational talent like LeBron James, offers a fascinating insight into the dynamics of sports viewership and franchise power. It suggests that while individual stars undeniably boost interest, the institutional legacy and the emergence of new captivating talents like Luka Doncic can sustain a team's broad appeal. This commitment from national broadcasters highlights the enduring commercial value and cultural impact of historic franchises, irrespective of roster changes. It's a reminder that in professional sports, the narrative is constantly evolving, with new rivalries and storylines emerging to keep fans engaged and glued to their screens.
