Lakers lineup no. 3:
- Kendrick Nunn/Austin Reaves/Lonnie Walker IV/LeBron James/Anthony Davis
The third and final starting lineup assumes that Russell Westbrook is not dealt, but rather sent home and/or bought out.
This specific starting five corrects the spacing issue that was present in the first lineup. Assuming Kendrick Nunn is (finally) healthy, he will add an element of a scoring threat at the point guard position. Nunn was effective in the preseason last year before getting hurt and the Lakers hope it will finally show in the regular season in 2022.
Austin Reaves unequivocally deserves a large role on the 2022 Lakers after his stellar rookie outing. Reaves can be counted on defensively and is an improving long-range shooter. If Reaves is not starting games, he will likely still be finishing them.
Reaves and Walker IV have the potential to be a strong defensive wing duo, as well. Walker IV has not lived up to his potential as a defensive player yet but has all the physical gifts to do so.
LeBron James may end up on the Lakers a lot longer than fans think
The Los Angeles Lakers signed LeBron James to a two-year extension two weeks ago but that might be just the start of LeBron's future in LA.
The big change in this potential lineup is starting Anthony Davis at the five position. While it has been made clear that it is not Davis’ preference, and that has been reflected in Los Angeles’ offseason moves, it still may give the Lakers the best chance to win games.