Apr 30, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) shoots against Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels (3) during the second half in game five of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images / Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

This article was originally published on www.si.com/nba/lakers as Lakers Stunningly Disrespected by NBA GMs in New Survey. Heading into the 2025-26 season, the Los Angeles Lakers view themselves as title contenders. After finishing third in the Western Conference last season they think they can finish better this season.