The Los Angeles Lakers are among the few teams that didn’t have the luxury of sticking to a definite starting five last season and first-year head coach JJ Redick may hope things are different this season.
Between an abundance of injuries and inconsistent play, the Lakers never had the luxury of putting together a consistent starting lineup last year. Without continuity on their side, it often led to miscommunications and a lack of chemistry. However, with one of the best basketball minds in Redick calling the shots, LA should be in a better position moving forward.
Despite the rumors suggesting the Lakers would be very active this offseason, general manager Rob Pelinka opted to run it back ahead of next season aside from the team’s incoming draft class -- the starting lineup in Los Angeles will likely look similar to last season with potentially one key change.
PG: D’Angelo Russell
Russell could be on the move before the season tips off, but there’s also a high possibility he will start the year in Los Angeles. The playmaker has shown his ability to create offense with the ball in his hand and be a knockdown shooter when asked to be. If he’s on the Lakers roster on opening night, he will undoubtedly be the opening night point guard.
SG: Austin Reaves
Austin Reaves chose to go undrafted in 2021 to sign with the Lakers rather than being drafted by other interested teams. In turn, the former Oklahoma standout has quickly built a name for himself and become one of the Laker's most reliable and consistent players. Between his ability to handle the ball and play in spots, he’ll be a big part of the Laker's plans next season. He’s also built chemistry with LeBron James and Anthony Davis and should be a part of the starting unit.
SF: LeBron James
LeBron James needs no introduction. The superstar is arguably the best player to ever step foot on the court and has one of the best understandings of the game. James is a point guard stuck in a forward’s body and provides the Lakers the ability to utilize different lineups. LBJ will be the focal point of the Lakers starting lineup next season and beyond.
PF: Rui Hachimura
Rui Hachimura is the biggest question mark of the lineup entering next season. The forward has shown flashes of his offensive potential with the Lakers and he’s even shown glimpses of improved defense. There will likely be a training camp battle between Hachimura and Jared Vanderbilt, and it will ultimately come down to who Redick feels fits the best alongside the rest of the starting lineup. However, at this point, the Gonzaga product may offer more upside for LA.
C: Anthony Davis
Anthony Davis is yet another player that needs no introduction. Not only is Davis an absolute monster on the glass, but the nine-time all-star is one of the best defensive players in the league. Between his elite rim protection and offensive abilities, Davis will continue to be a vital part of the Laker's success, especially if they hope to make a run in the Western Conference.
This lineup will offer versatility across the board including explosive offense and underrated defense. And while the starting lineup is far from being set, I wouldn't be surprised if this is the first five you see for the Lakers come opening night.
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