2. Depth
The Lakers have one of the deepest teams in the league and that has been a key to their terrific year. Sure they have two of the league’s best players but their depth is also great.
Coming off the bench the Lakers have guys that can start like Kyle Kuzma, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and Dwight Howard. Then they have quality second-unit guys like Alex Caruso, Rajon Rondo, and Markieff Morris.
The Lakers will benefit from the hiatus as well with the return of Dion Waiters. Waiters was signed by the Lakers before the league was suspended. He has yet to make his debut with the team. The 28-year-old is a scorer who can get his own offense and isn’t afraid of taking big shots.
Memphis doesn’t have the depth to match the Lakers. They have a nice starting lineup featuring Morant, Brooks, Winslow, Jackson Jr, and Valanciunas. Their bench is a big question mark.
Their most reliable bench guy is rookie Brandon Clarke. Clarke has had a great rookie campaign as he is averaging 12 points and 5.8 rebounds in 22 minutes.
Assuming Winslow starts they will have Kyle Anderson off the bench who is solid. Anderson does a bit of everything and has a great feel for the game. Tyus Jones (7.4 ppg) is the backup lead guard.