Predicted Lakers reserves:
PG: Davon Reed | 2023-2024 Opening Night Age: 27 | 2023-2024 Salary: $2.1 Million
Q: Who is Davon Reed?
A: Reed was acquired from the Nuggets in the Thomas Bryant deal, but has not received much action as a Laker. With another season on his contract, he may be traded in the offseason but could certainly return. He has shown capable of providing rotation minutes during his brief time in Denver, and appears to be okay with DNPs if they translate to Ws.
SG: Max Christie | 2023-2024 Opening Night Age: 20 | 2023-2024 Salary: $1.7 Million
Q: Will Christie have a larger role next season?
A: Max Christie has looked the part of an NBA player in his rookie season. He has not produced any highlights that catch your attention or accumulated any stats that leap off the page, but he has provided solid defense on the perimeter and shown the ability to hit outside shots.
By today’s definition, that qualifies him as a valid 3&D wing player and we all know how sacred those have become in the league today. Christie would certainly see an increased role next year with the (assumed) loss of Lonnie Walker IV, but will have to battle with Troy Brown Jr and Malik Beasley in his pursuit of that role.
PF: Jeff Green | 2023-2024 Opening Night Age: 37 | 2023-2024 Salary: $2.9 Million
Q: Why Jeff Green?
A: Jeff Green has continued to provide solid minutes despite his age, and his long-time friendship with LeBron could/should bring him to Los Angeles. Green has not yet won any championships to this point in his career and could rejoin his comrade in an effort to secure a belt.
C: Bismack Biyombo | 2023-2024 Opening Night Age: 31 | 2023-2024 Salary: $2.9 Million
Q: Why Bismack Biyombo?
A: We all know about Anthony Davis’s injury problems. We will not even delve into that. However, even with Bamba in the mix, some added size up front would be nice just in case. Biyombo has long been known for his abilities as an energy big, providing a stabilizing force on the boards, setting screens frequently, and going all out on the defensive end.