The Los Angeles Lakers lost arguably their best defenders in Lonzo Ball and Josh Hart. Even Brandon Ingram was a good defender as well. However, they made up for it by acquiring some established defenders, who have played on the big stages as well.
Last season, the Lakers ranked 21st in defense (113.5 ppg). I expect that number to change significantly for a few reasons. The first being that they have Anthony Davis. Davis is a three-time All-NBA defensive selection and has led the league in blocks three times as well. You can make the case that he is as good as anybody besides Rudy Gobert at protecting the rim. His versatility to defend multiple spots is a huge bonus.
The other two talented defenders are Danny Green and Avery Bradley. Green was an All-NBA Defense Second team selection in 2017. Like Davis, he has the ability to defend multiple spots.
Last but not least, Bradley, one of the more under the radar signings of the summers. He is the Lakers version of Patrick Beverley. He is a two-time All-Defensive selection. With the Lakers losing Ball, they didn’t have a player who is capable of handling a Stephen Curry or Damian Lillard type guard. Bradley is one of few who can take on that challenge. Look for his impact to be felt more, come playoff time.