Getting tickets to see the Los Angeles Lakers play at the Crypto.com Arena in downtown LA can be a challenge for fans. The Lakers are one of the most popular and successful franchises in NBA history, with 17 championships and legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal, and LeBron James among their all-time greats. They continue to have a massive global fanbase even through recent struggles.
With such huge demand, Lakers tickets sell out quickly when they go on sale. Prices can also be very expensive, especially for premium seats or games against other top teams like the Boston Celtics or Golden State Warriors. However, there are still ways for diehard and casual fans alike to get seats in the iconic purple and gold at reasonable costs. It just takes planning, flexibility, and knowing where to look.
When Do Lakers Tickets Go on Sale?
The first chance to buy Lakers tickets is during the preseason. Individual game seats typically go on sale in late August or early September, though partial or full-season ticket packages may be available earlier to renewing season ticket holders. Fans can purchase via the Lakers website, ticket resellers, or box office.
Once the regular season begins in mid-October, a limited number of tickets are released for the remaining home games. These often sell out instantly for the most in-demand matches. More seats may open up closer to game day as the team and resellers put unsold allocations back on the market.
There are 41 regular season home games at Crypto.com Arena, with preseason beginning in early October and the regular season running through April. The schedule is announced in mid-August.
Where Can I Buy Lakers Tickets?
Here are some of the main options for securing seats to see LeBron and the Lakers live:
Lakers Website
The best place to buy tickets firsthand is the official Lakers ticket page at https://www.nba.com/lakers/tickets. Season ticket holders can also manage their accounts online. The website shows a seating chart so you can see views from different sections before purchasing.
Ticket Resellers
Websites like StubHub, Vivid Seats, and Ticketmaster resell tickets being resold by season ticket holders and other fans. Prices are determined by demand, so can fluctuate over time. These sites charge fees but are trustworthy sources.
Box Office
Lakers tickets can be purchased in person at the Crypto.com Arena box office without fees. Available inventory is extremely limited, but it is an option for fans willing to take their chances. The box office opens 90 minutes before tipoff on game days.
Ticket Exchange Groups
Ticket exchange Facebook Groups like “LA Ticket Exchange” connect local fans looking to sell and buy tickets. Prices are often below face value. However, tickets are in digital form only and you must trust the seller. Exercise caution to avoid scams.
Promotions
For select games, the Lakers offer ticket discounts or other promotions sponsored by partners. These may be targeted to certain groups like college students or theme nights to draw crowds. Follow Lakers social media and email newsletters for details on special deals.
How Much Do Lakers Tickets Cost?
Lakers ticket prices vary widely depending on factors like seat location, opponent, day and time, and current demand. On the low end, upper level corner seats against a less popular team on a weeknight might start around $60-70. For an elite opponent on a weekend, similar seats could reach $200 or more. Courtside seats always run four-figures at a minimum.
Season ticket packages for all 41 home games are only available to waitlist members currently. In the past, full-season deals started around $19,000 for upper sections. On the secondary market, season tickets easily run over $100,000 for prime seats.
Below are estimated average resale prices for different parts of Crypto.com Arena from the 2022-23 season:
Section | Average Price |
Courtside | $9,555 |
Lower Level Sideline | $1,328 |
Lower Level Corner | $856 |
Upper Level Sideline | $384 |
Upper Level Corner | $172 |
These prices can rise and fall leading up to tipoff. The most in-demand games against the Golden State Warriors, Boston Celtics, LA Clippers, and other contenders draw the highest averages.
When Are the Cheapest Lakers Games?
Fans looking for the most affordable way to see the Lakers play live should target these types of games:
Weeknights
Attending Lakers games on Monday through Thursday nights brings prices $75-100 lower on average versus weekend nights. With school and work the next morning, demand drops from more casual fans even if the opponent is a top team.
Lower-Tier Opponents
Matchups against losing teams like the San Antonio Spurs, Houston Rockets, and Oklahoma City Thunder will have the lowest average ticket costs. There are also fewer rival fans looking to attend.
Preseason
Exhibition games in early October are the cheapest way to see the Lakers at Crypto.com Arena. Upper deck seats can start as low as $25 and under. The overall experience won’t match the intensity of the regular season, but discounts let fans check out the new roster.
January and February
Demand and prices traditionally dip after the new year once the honeymoon phase wears off and teams settle into their expected roles. Exceptions would be around Christmas and other holidays. Also, avoid rivalry games.
Other Tips for Getting Cheap Lakers Tickets
Beyond targeting low-demand games, fans can utilize other strategies to find affordable seats:
Buy at Last Minute
Prices usually drop drastically in the hours leading up to tipoff as sellers slash prices to recoup some value. Be ready to purchase instantly and get digital tickets transferred. Selection will be extremely limited.
Upper Level Seats
The highest rows of the 300 level offer the cheapest tickets while still giving you a full view of the court. Avoid the corners unless the price difference really justifies it.
Avoid Fees
Cut down fees by buying directly from other fans. Try the Lakers ticket exchange Facebook Group or find trustworthy season ticket holders selling their unused seats.
Split Packages
For season tickets or mini-plans, splitting costs with a group of friends makes access more affordable. You also have someone to go with and can alternate attending games.
Enter Contests and Promos
Keep an eye out for ticket giveaways on Lakers social media and radio partnerships. Sign up for the Fifth Ticket program for access to discounted seats.
Are Lakers Tickets Worth the Price?
Seeing LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and the Lakers live at the historic Crypto.com Arena is a bucket list item for many NBA fans. The electricity and star power are unmatched, especially for marquee games against rivals. However, the high ticket costs, particularly for lower bowl seats, mean it stays a fantasy for plenty of people.
Sitting upper level can still provide a great live experience at around $100 if you find a low-demand game. But is it worth dropping $500+ per seat to get closer? That depends on your budget, who the Lakers are playing, and how big of a fan you are.
The Lakers will likely continue charging premium prices based on their global brand. But deals can be found for more budget-conscious fans who are flexible. Weigh how much value you place on being there in person and how much you can afford to create a memorable night.
Conclusion
The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the hottest tickets in sports thanks to their star power, history, and championship pedigree. With limited seats at Crypto.com Arena, high demand drives up costs, especially for premier opponents and playoff races. But by targeting low-profile games, buying upper deck seats, avoiding fees, and more, fans on any budget can still experience the purple and gold in person.
It takes effort and planning, but persists Lakers fans have decent odds at landing affordable seats if they play their cards right. Use this guide to weigh the major factors in buying tickets, timing your purchase, and implementing strategies. With flexibility and patience, you can land seats you are happy with at a price within your range to see LeBron, AD, and the stars shine.