Projecting the Lakers 2024-25 Depth Chart After Disappointing Offseason
By Cem Yolbulan
Despite suffering a disappointing first-round loss to the Denver Nuggets last season, the Los Angeles Lakers have yet to make any improvements to their roster. LeBron James and Anthony Davis will be a year older and the team has made it clear that they need significant additions in order to be competitive in the loaded Western Conference. Still, GM Rob Pelinka and the front office have chosen to keep their powder dry and bring back last year's roster.
There are obviously small changes to the roster. Taurean Prince and Spencer Dinwiddie left in free agency and the Lakers added Bronny James and Dalton Knecht instead. Barring any major trades in the next couple of weeks, the Lakers are projected to start the season with the current roster. Let's explore what the depth chart looks like as of now.
Backcourt
Starters
Gabe Vincent
Austin Reaves
This may come as a surprise but if Gabe Vincent is healthy and available, he makes more sense as a starter next to Austin Reaves. Last season, Vincent was only able to appear in 11 games and the Lakers had to rely on the D'Angelo Russell-Austin Reaves pairing in the backcourt. That duo proved to be defensively flammable as they don't offer much in terms of size, strength, and intensity.
Vincent, on the other hand, can guard the point of attack and get over screens. He struggled to make shots last season but has proven to be at least an average shooter before.
There is a chance Reaves is moved to a sixth-man role as Darvin Ham tried at times last season. However, considering the likelihood of a D'Angelo Russell deal, it's more probable that Reaves will begin the season as a starter.
Next let's look at the rotation and the bench.