Los Angeles Lakers Starting Lineup And Bench After Selecting Dalton Knecht And Bronny James

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The Los Angeles Lakers drafted Bronny James with the No. 55 overall pick and it is safe to say it wasn’t a surprise. LeBron James is one of the most powerful athletes in the history of the NBA and keeping him settled and happy will be the goal of the Lakers franchise as they look to capitalize on his presence to win another NBA championship.

With Anthony Davis on the squad and even No. 17 overall Dalton Knecht falling into their laps, the Lakers have a very impressive squad for the 2024-25 NBA season and let’s break it down.

Starting Lineup

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

With the 2024 NBA Draft behind them, the Los Angeles Lakers have solidified a starting lineup poised to compete at the highest level. D’Angelo Russell is expected to re-sign with the team (has an $18,692,307 player option), providing the Lakers with a reliable scoring option and playmaker after posting 18.0 points and 6.3 assists per game on 41.5% from three. Russell's ability to create off the dribble and his improving three-point shot make him an ideal complement to the Lakers' offensive scheme, especially with LeBron James and Anthony Davis drawing significant defensive attention.

Austin Reaves (15.9 PPG in 2023-24), who has steadily developed into a versatile two-way player, fits perfectly in the starting shooting guard spot. His tenacity on defense, coupled with his ability to knock down open shots and facilitate the offense, makes him a key piece in the Lakers' starting lineup. Reaves' chemistry with LeBron and Davis is evident, and his basketball IQ ensures he will make the right plays when it matters most.

LeBron James, the near 40-year-old superstar of the team who will likely re-sign on a long-term deal by rejecting his $51,415,938 player option, can reaffirm his commitment to the Lakers and his desire to finish his illustrious career alongside his son, Bronny. LeBron's leadership, court vision, and scoring prowess remain unparalleled, and his presence elevates the entire team. Playing at the small forward position, he will continue to be the focal point of the Lakers' offense while also mentoring the younger players, including Bronny.

Rui Hachimura and Anthony Davis round out the frontcourt, providing a blend of size, athleticism, and versatility. Hachimura's mid-range game and defensive capabilities complement Davis' dominance in the paint. Davis, when healthy, is one of the most impactful players in the league on both ends of the floor. His ability to protect the rim, rebound, and score from multiple spots on the court makes him the anchor of the Lakers' defense and a primary offensive weapon. After Davis’ incredible campaign in 2023-24 (24.7 PPG, 12.6 RPG, 2.3 BPG), the big man could follow it up with another superstar season in 2024-25.

Bench

Gabe Vincent, Bronny James, Jalen Hood-Schifino, Dalton Knecht, Cam Reddish, Maxwell Lewis, Jarred Vanderbilt, Christian Wood, Jaxson Hayes

The Lakers' bench boasts a mix of experienced veterans and promising young talents, ensuring depth and versatility throughout the season. Gabe Vincent, who struggled with injuries last season with only 11 appearances, is expected to return stronger and provide solid minutes as a backup point guard. His defensive tenacity and three-point shooting will be crucial in maintaining the team's performance when the starters rest.

Bronny James, the highly anticipated rookie, will be a focal point of the Lakers' bench. While he has much to prove, his basketball IQ and pedigree suggest he will adapt quickly to the NBA. Learning under his father, LeBron, Bronny has the opportunity to grow his game significantly. Jalen Hood-Schifino, entering his second year, will look to build on his rookie season, offering a combination of size and playmaking ability that makes him a valuable asset off the bench.

Dalton Knecht, the sharpshooter who surprisingly fell to the Lakers at No. 17, is expected to be one of the steals of the draft. His ability to space the floor and knock down shots from beyond the arc will be invaluable for the Lakers' second unit. Cam Reddish ($2,463,946 player option) and Maxwell Lewis, both versatile wings, provide additional depth and defensive prowess. Reddish, in particular, has the potential to be a key contributor if he can stay healthy and find consistency in his game.

In the frontcourt, Jarred Vanderbilt returns from an injury-plagued season (29 appearances), ready to contribute with his defensive versatility and energy. Christian Wood, a versatile big man, offers scoring and rebounding off the bench while Jaxson Hayes, if he picks up his $2,463,946 player option, provides the Lakers with a rim-protecting presence and athleticism in the paint, further bolstering their frontcourt depth.

The Los Angeles Lakers Can Surprise Teams Next Year And Make The Western Conference Finals

The Los Angeles Lakers, with a well-balanced mix of veteran leadership and youthful energy, are well-positioned to surprise many and make a deep playoff run in the upcoming season. The starting lineup, headlined by the timeless LeBron James and the dominant Anthony Davis, is further enhanced by the versatile contributions of D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura. This core group, complemented by a bench rich in talent and potential, ensures that the Lakers can maintain high-level play throughout games. The additions of rookies Bronny James and Dalton Knecht inject fresh talent and enthusiasm, promising impactful contributions right out of the gate.

The Lakers' depth, experience, and strategic offseason moves have fortified their roster, making them a serious contender in the Western Conference. If the team can stay healthy and develop chemistry, they have all the necessary ingredients to challenge the best in the league. With LeBron's unparalleled leadership, Davis' two-way brilliance, and a supporting cast ready to step up, the Lakers have the potential to not only make the playoffs but to surprise everyone by reaching the Western Conference Finals.

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