3 Different Starting Lineups The Lakers Could Use For The 2024-25 NBA Season

The Los Angeles Lakers have improved their roster with some key draft additions, Dalton Knecht and Bronny James . While adding two rookies to a title-contending team doesn’t always guarantee immediate success, the Lakers needed some younger players who are hungry to prove themselves. Looking ahead to the 2024-25 NBA season, the Lakers can leverage the brilliance of LeBron James and Anthony Davis to have three different starting lineups that can be used at any point of the regular season and playoffs.

Starting Lineup: Traditional Lineup

D'Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, Anthony Davis

In this lineup, the Lakers opt for a traditional approach with LeBron James at small forward and Anthony Davis at power forward. Despite Davis's preference to avoid the center position, this configuration allows him to operate comfortably in his preferred role while leveraging his defensive prowess and mid-range shooting ability.

LeBron James, with his exceptional playmaking and basketball IQ (coming off averages of 25.7 PPG, 7.3 RPG, and 8.3 APG), takes on a facilitating role, orchestrating the offense and providing scoring when needed. D'Angelo Russell , a reliable scoring guard with strong shooting (41.5% last season), complements James by handling the ball and creating scoring opportunities for himself and others.

Austin Reaves , a versatile guard who has shown defensive tenacity and perimeter shooting capability (15.9 PPG, 5.5 APG), fills the shooting guard position, offering floor spacing and defensive stability. Rui Hachimura rounds out the starting five, bringing athleticism, mid-range scoring, and solid defense at the forward position. This lineup combines offensive firepower with defensive strength, anchored by the dynamic duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis, making it a formidable force in the league.

Starting Lineup 2: Hybrid Versatility

LeBron James, Austin Reaves, Dalton Knecht, Rui Hachimura, Anthony Davis

In this hybrid lineup, LeBron James takes on a point guard role, showcasing his unparalleled playmaking ability and basketball IQ. This strategic adjustment allows James to dictate the tempo of the game and distribute the ball effectively to his teammates. Austin Reaves shifts to shooting guard, utilizing his perimeter shooting and defensive skills to provide spacing and guard opposing backcourts.

Dalton Knecht, known for his three-point shooting prowess and floor spacing capabilities as a rookie, slots in as a small forward, enhancing the team's outside shooting threat. Rui Hachimura continues to play a crucial role at power forward (13.6 PPG, 4.3 RPG), contributing with his scoring versatility and defensive efforts. Anthony Davis anchors the defense at center, despite his reluctance to play the position full-time, utilizing his shot-blocking and rebounding abilities to fortify the paint. This lineup maximizes versatility and shooting while maintaining defensive stability, adapting to various matchups and defensive schemes throughout the season.

Starting Lineup 3: Perfect Fit for Anthony Davis

D'Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Jaxson Hayes

In this lineup tailored to Anthony Davis's preferences, he slides into his preferred power forward position, allowing him to operate in the mid-range and post areas where he excels. Davis's ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and defend multiple positions makes him a crucial asset at the four spot. LeBron James continues to play at small forward, utilizing his playmaking and scoring abilities to impact the game on both ends of the floor.

D'Angelo Russell takes the reins as the starting point guard, utilizing his scoring ability and playmaking skills to orchestrate the offense and create opportunities for his teammates. Austin Reaves remains at shooting guard, providing perimeter shooting and defensive intensity. Jaxson Hayes, a young and athletic center who is only 24 years old, joins the lineup to anchor the defense and provide rim protection, allowing Davis to thrive at power forward.

Hayes averaged 4.3 points and 3.0 rebounds per game last year but might do enough to get more minutes to help Davis get back to his favorite spot on the court. This lineup configuration not only optimizes Anthony Davis's talents but also balances scoring, playmaking, and defensive prowess across all positions, making it a formidable unit in the competitive landscape of the NBA.

Related: 8 Best Centers The Los Angeles Lakers Could Land This Summer

Which Lineup Should The Lakers Use In 2024-25?

Each of these starting lineups presents unique strengths and strategic advantages for the Los Angeles Lakers heading into the 2024-25 NBA season. Whether emphasizing traditional strength, hybrid versatility, or catering to Anthony Davis's preferences, the Lakers have the personnel to contend at the highest level. As the season unfolds, new head coach J.J. Redick will undoubtedly experiment with various combinations to maximize the team's potential and achieve their championship aspirations.

For the 2024-25 NBA season, the Los Angeles Lakers should strongly consider utilizing the Traditional Strength lineup featuring D'Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, and Anthony Davis as their primary starting five. This lineup offers a balanced mix of offensive firepower and defensive capability. LeBron James operates as the primary facilitator and leader, with D'Angelo Russell providing scoring punch and playmaking from the guard position. Austin Reaves adds defensive solidity and perimeter shooting, while Rui Hachimura contributes with his scoring versatility and defensive presence. Anthony Davis, despite his preference against playing center, anchors the defense at power forward and provides reliable scoring and rebounding.

Alternatively, the Lakers could consider the Hybrid Versatility lineup as the opponents change. This configuration allows LeBron to play point guard, leveraging his exceptional playmaking abilities, while Dalton provides additional three-point shooting and floor spacing at small forward. Austin Reaves shifts to shooting guard for defensive stability and perimeter shooting, alongside Rui Hachimura's scoring and defensive contributions. Anthony Davis remains at power forward, maximizing his effectiveness in his preferred position while Jaxson Hayes or another center could be utilized for specific matchups.

As a final option, the Lakers could explore the Perfect Fit for Anthony Davis lineup with D'Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Jaxson Hayes. This lineup caters specifically to Anthony Davis's preferences by allowing him to play power forward alongside a traditional center like Jaxson Hayes, who provides rim protection and interior defense. This lineup is perfect for playing against teams such as the Denver Nuggets and Philadelphia 76ers who sport dominant big men.

In conclusion, while all three lineups offer distinct advantages, the Traditional Strength lineup appears to be the most balanced and effective choice for the Lakers in the upcoming season. It optimizes the talents of key players like LeBron James and Anthony Davis in their preferred roles while maintaining defensive integrity and offensive versatility. Coach Redick’s decision will ultimately hinge on maximizing cohesion, defensive prowess, and offensive efficiency to position the Lakers as strong contenders in the competitive Western Conference.

Related: Grade The Trade: Los Angeles Lakers Land Jimmy Butler, Otherwise Heat Could Lose Him For Nothing

Thank you for being a valued reader of Fadeaway World. If you liked this article, please consider following us on Google News . We really appreciate your support.