Los Angeles Lakers 2023-24 Season Projections: Starting Lineup and Second Unit
A look at the potential roster and rotations for the upcoming Lakers season.
For NBA enthusiasts, the offseason brings an exciting period of speculation and analysis regarding their favorite teams’ rosters. The Los Angeles Lakers, with their rich history and passionate fan base, are no exception. Let’s delve into the potential lineup and rotations for the 2023-24 season, as projected by The Athletic’s Jovan Buha.
Projected Starting Five:
- Point Guard (PG): D’Angelo Russell
- Shooting Guard (SG): Austin Reaves
- Small Forward (SF): Rui Hachimura
- Power Forward (PF): LeBron James
- Center (C): Anthony Davis
The trio of LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Austin Reaves seems like a lock for the starting lineup. Rui Hachimura, after an impressive playoff run, secured a well-deserved contract extension. While his ability to score off the bench is intriguing, Head Coach Darvin Ham may stagger his starters due to the team’s deep bench.
The Second Unit:
- PG: Gabe Vincent
- SG: Max Christie
- SF: Taurean Prince
- PF: Jarred Vanderbilt
- C: Christian Wood
Gabe Vincent, a reliable guard with defensive prowess, is a solid backup option. Max Christie, on the brink of a breakout season, could become a valuable depth piece with consistent playing time. Jarred Vanderbilt brings energy, athleticism, and defensive versatility off the bench. Taurean Prince’s 3-and-D skills may see him starting at the small forward spot occasionally. Lastly, Christian Wood adds an interesting dimension, potentially backing up LeBron James for defensive prowess.
In some scenarios, Christian Wood might become the focal point of the second unit offense, showcasing his double-double capabilities when fully engaged. While rookies Jalen Hood-Schifino and Maxwell Lewis may spend more time in the G-League, Cam Reddish and Jaxson Hayes, former Top-10 picks, provide intriguing options following their change of scenery.
Under the tutelage of development expert Phil Handy, these young talents could contribute sooner rather than later. The Lakers boast exceptional length and size collectively, offering Coach Ham a plethora of combinations throughout the season. Assuming good health, the Lakers could emerge as the deepest and most versatile squad in the league for the 2023-24 season.
As fans eagerly anticipate the new season, the Lakers’ potential lineup and rotations promise an exciting mix of experience and emerging talent.
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