Lakers Send Message to PA Announcer After Unfortunate Health News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Mar 27, 2026 6:02 PM ET

The Los Angeles Lakers enter the final nine games of the season in strong form, continuing one of their best stretches of the season. Los Angeles has won 10 of its last 11 games, climbing firmly into contention in the Western Conference as the regular season winds down. The surge has been fueled by elite offensive play and improved consistency on both ends of the floor.

A major driver behind that run has been Luka Doncic, who has been playing at an MVP level. During this stretch, Doncic has averaged 39.5 points per game, scoring at least 40 points in five of those games , while adding around 8.1 rebounds and 7.3 assists.

The Lakers will look to extend their streak on Friday when they host the Brooklyn Nets. Brooklyn enters the game struggling, sitting 14th in the Eastern Conference and riding a nine-game losing streak, making this a key opportunity for Los Angeles to continue its push for a third-seed finish.

Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) reacts to a call from referee Courtney Kirkland (61).Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images

However, hours before tipoff, Lakers fans were dealt an unfortunate update involving the franchise’s public address announcer and one of LA’s most beloved voices, Lawrence Tanter.

In a statement, the Lakers announced: “Lakers public address announcer Lawrence Tanter will be away tonight as he recovers from a health matter. Jason Barquero will fill in during his absence. The entire Lakers organization is wishing Lawrence all the best in his recovery, and we look forward to welcoming him back soon.”

Statement from the Lakers on the absence of their longtime public address announcer, Lawrence Tanter, tonight against the Brooklyn Nets. Tanter, 76, has been the Lakers’ PA announcer since the 1982-83 season. pic.twitter.com/C91GASaQAX
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) March 27, 2026

Lawrence Tanter has been a constant presence for the franchise for more than four decades, serving as the team’s public address announcer since the 1982-83 season. During that span, he has been on the mic for 10 Lakers championships and 16 Western Conference titles, making him one of the most recognizable voices in the organization’s history.

His smooth delivery and signature introductions have become a staple of the in-arena experience for generations of fans.

Stepping in is Jason Barquero, a seasoned announcer with experience across multiple sports and live-event settings. Though not a permanent fixture like Tanter, Barquero brings a professional background that allows for continuity in game presentation.

While Tanter’s absence is a notable setback for the game-day atmosphere, the Lakers will look to lift the spirits of their home crowd with another strong performance. Friday’s matchup marks the beginning of a six-game homestand.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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