Who will replace the Los Angeles Lakers starting five when they need a rest? We take a look at who could make up the team’s second unit.
The Los Angeles Lakers have added depth this offseason, putting them in a position to make a run at the NBA championship this coming year. With the need for a deep bench unit becoming increasingly more important, who will be the backup starting five while the starters rest?
With each passing day, the NBA season draws closer. It won’t be too long before we see our favorite NBA superstars grace the hardwood floor.
With superstar power forward Anthony Davis officially a member of the purple and gold, the anticipation in Los Angeles is at a fever pitch.
With LeBron James and Anthony Davis, the Lakers have a real chance at staking a claim for the Larry O’Brien trophy. However, with Kawhi Leonard and Paul George making the move to the city rival LA Clippers, the road to championship glory will be hard-fought and will require depth in numerous areas for the purple and gold to succeed.
The Lakers gave up a lot of depth in trading away Lonzo Ball, Josh Hart, and Brandon Ingram, as well as the fourth overall pick in this year’s draft (along with future draft picks and pick swaps). They were able to nullify that by adding numerous veterans who are willing to take a pay cut to compete for a ring.
The need for a deep bench was never so apparent after the Golden State Warriors lost Klay Thompson, DeMarcus Cousins, and Kevin Durant during the 2019 NBA Finals. While any team would fall apart after losing such players, it outlined the need for having the depth to lessen the blow.
While the Lakers starting five is relatively set with the likes of Danny Green, LeBron James, and Anthony Davis pretty much guaranteed a starting berth, the 2nd unit is up for debate.
With that said, here is a look at what a 2nd unit lineup would look like.