- The Lakers have a stacked team heading into the 2023-24 season
- LeBron James isn’t retiring and that means the time to win is now
- Los Angeles has completely revamped their roster with new pieces
The Los Angeles Lakers, one of the most illustrious and storied franchises in NBA history, have consistently been synonymous with greatness and a thirst for championships. As the 2023-24 NBA season approaches, the basketball world is abuzz with curiosity about the Lakers’ formidable roster and the meticulous strategies behind their player acquisitions. With an assembly of top-tier talents and a blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars, the Lakers’ management has orchestrated an awe-inspiring lineup that has ignited excitement among fans and rivals alike.
- Starters
- D’Angelo Russell – Traded In February 2023
- Austin Reaves – Signed In 2022 (Undrafted Player)
- Jarred Vanderbilt – Traded In February 2023
- LeBron James – Signed In June 2018 (Free Agency)
- Anthony Davis – Traded In June 2019
- Bench
- Gabe Vincent – Sign In June 2023 (Free Agency)
- D’Moi Hodge – Signed In July 2023 (Two-Way Contract)
- Jalen Hood-Schifino – Drafted No. 17 Overall In 2023 Draft
- Maxwell Lewis – Drafted No. 40 Overall In 2023 Draft
- Cam Reddish – Signed In June 2023 (Free Agency)
- Max Christie – Drafted No. 35 Overall In 2022 Draft
- Taurean Prince – Signed In June 2023 (Free Agency)
- Rui Hachimura – Traded In February 2023
- Colin Castleton – Signed In July 2023 (Two-Way Contract)
- Jaxson Hayes – Signed In June 2023 (Free Agency)
The Lakers overcame a putrid start to the 2022-23 season with Russell Westbrook on the roster before completely changing the team’s core around LeBron James and Anthony Davis. By first shipping out Russell Westbrook, the Lakers brought in D’Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Rui Hachimura to completely revamp the roster. Los Angeles snuck into the playoffs via the play-in tournament before making it to the Western Conference Finals. Despite the fact that James averaged 27.8 PPG, 9.5 RPG, and 10.0 APG and Davis chipped in 26.8 PPG and 14.0 RPG, Los Angeles was swept at the hands of the eventual champion Denver Nuggets.
Looking ahead to the 2023-24 season, the Lakers are looking to bounce back. LeBron James has set aside any fears of his retirement by claiming he will be back and along with Anthony Davis, the Lakers have one of the best duos in the NBA. However, Los Angeles has made massive additions to the roster this summer and has an incredible depth chart that features at least 10 talented players. Similar to how we analyzed how the NBA Finalist Miami Heat got their team before the NBA Finals, it is time to focus on how the Los Angeles Lakers acquired all of their players heading into the upcoming season.
Starters
D’Angelo Russell – Traded In February 2023
Despite being drafted No. 2 overall in the 2015 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers, D’Angelo Russell only lasted two seasons before getting shipped off to the Brooklyn Nets, where he became an All-Star in the 2018-19 season. After a stint in Brooklyn and Minnesota, Russell was brought back to the Lakers in February of 2023 for a chance to prove that he is the long-term option at the point guard spot. Russell did well, averaging 17.4 PPG and 6.1 APG with the Lakers over 17 games.
Looking ahead to the 2023-24 season, Russell has re-signed with the Lakers on a 2-year, $37 million deal because at 27 years old, he has plenty of time to try to make another All-Star Team. While he isn’t guaranteed the starting point guard spot because Gabe Vincent was signed in the summer of 2023, Russell will likely hold onto the starting spot because his offensive skills are clearly above-average and he has time to get even better.
Austin Reaves – Signed In 2022 (Undrafted Player)
Austin Reaves was not supposed to be such an important figure on the Los Angeles Lakers roster. As a matter of fact, it happened by accident. Reaves was forced into playing a major role in the 2021-22 season because the Lakers were such an atrocious team that they needed any help they could help and injuries didn’t help. That meant Reaves appeared in 61 games and averaged 23.2 MPG as an undrafted rookie once the player essentially rejected the Detroit Pistons to sign with the Lakers.
In 2022-23, Reaves had an even bigger role by posting 13.0 PPG, 3.0 RPG, and 3.4 APG in 64 games with the Lakers and had an impressive playoff debut when he averaged 16.9 PPG, 4.4 RPG, and 4.6 APG. The 25-year-old was re-signed to a 4-year, $53,827,872 contract and that means he will be the starting shooting guard for most of the season. The confident scorer and playmaker was basically found to be a gem by accident and he has rewarded the Lakers with exceptional play.
Jarred Vanderbilt – Traded In February 2023
Just like D’Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt was acquired in February 2023 before the trade deadline and had a profound impact – mainly on the defensive end. The 6’9” forward can defend at least four positions at a time and can also be trusted to finish around the rim and nail outside shots when completely wide open. Over 26 games including 24 stars, Vanderbilt averaged 7.2 PPG and 6.7 RPG.
In the playoffs, Vanderbilt averaged 4.6 PPG and 3.2 RPG and while those numbers could obviously be better, his true impact comes on the defensive end. The forward is the Lakers’ best perimeter defensive player and that will continue to be the case in the upcoming 2023-24 season. Vanderbilt has proven to be a major acquisition by Los Angeles and it is amazing how he will be the second player likely starting for the Lakers despite being taken before the trade deadline in 2023.
LeBron James – Signed In June 2018 (Free Agency)
The acquisition of LeBron James by the Los Angeles Lakers was a groundbreaking moment in the franchise’s history and a pivotal event in the landscape of the entire NBA. LeBron James, widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, made the decision to join the Lakers before the 2018-19 season, instantly transforming the team’s fortunes and raising expectations to championship levels.
LeBron James opted out of his contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, becoming an unrestricted free agent. This move set the stage for a highly anticipated “Summer of LeBron,” where numerous teams vied for the opportunity to sign the NBA superstar. As the President of Basketball Operations for the Lakers at that time, Magic Johnson played a significant role in the recruitment of LeBron James. Magic’s charisma, basketball acumen, and personal success as a player resonated with LeBron, and his presence in the Lakers’ front office was a compelling factor in LeBron’s decision.
Beyond basketball, Los Angeles provided LeBron with immense business opportunities, given its status as a global entertainment hub. LeBron has always been active in various business ventures, and being in L.A. allowed him to explore these interests further. Even so, LeBron James’ arrival in Los Angeles injected new life into the franchise and instantly elevated the team’s expectations. Despite the fact the man will be 39 years old at some point next season, James will continue being the best player for the Lakers heading into the 2023-24 season.
Anthony Davis – Traded In June 2019
The acquisition of Anthony Davis by the Los Angeles Lakers was a blockbuster trade that sent shockwaves throughout the NBA and significantly altered the landscape of the league. Anthony Davis, a generational talent and one of the best players in the NBA, joined forces with LeBron James to form a dynamic duo that instantly made the Lakers championship contenders.
After securing LeBron James in free agency in 2018, the Lakers’ front office was determined to pair him with another superstar to maximize their chances of winning a championship. Anthony Davis emerged as the top target due to his exceptional skills, versatility, and ability to impact both ends of the floor. During the 2018-19 NBA season, Anthony Davis, who was then playing for the New Orleans Pelicans, informed the team that he would not re-sign with them when his contract expired and requested a trade. This announcement triggered a league-wide frenzy, as teams sought to engage in negotiations with the Pelicans for his services.
The Lakers were among the frontrunners to acquire Anthony Davis, and they put together a compelling trade package to entice the Pelicans. The package included several young players from the Lakers’ promising core, such as Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, and Josh Hart. Additionally, the Lakers offered multiple first-round draft picks as part of the deal.
The pairing of LeBron James and Anthony Davis instantly paid dividends for the Lakers. During the 2019-20 season, the Lakers had a stellar campaign, finishing as the top seed in the Western Conference. They went on to win the NBA Championship in the Orlando bubble, marking the Lakers’ 17th championship in franchise history. Heading into the 2023-24 season, the Lakers are looking to capitalize on James and Davis’ duo for a chance to win another championship.
Bench
Gabe Vincent – Sign In June 2023 (Free Agency)
Gabe Vincent was indispensable for the Miami Heat last season but he was slightly out of his depth in the NBA Finals despite the uptick in production in the playoffs as a whole. Vincent had a decent regular season, posting 9.4 PPG and 2.5 APG but taking his numbers to 12.7 PPG and 3.5 APG in the playoffs. Due to his confident shooting and solid perimeter defense, Vincent was preferred to Kyle Lowry in Erik Spoelstra’s starting rotation.
However, Vincent struggled in the NBA Finals as he only averaged 11.4 PPG on 33.3% shooting from three and was not enough to be the third option behind Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo. However, Vincent has proven to be a capable two-way point guard who makes smart basketball decisions and will put a ton of pressure on D’Angelo Russell in terms of competing for the starting point guard spot. Unlike with the Miami Heat, Vincent does not have to be a reliable third option and that could greatly benefit his production. No doubt, Vincent’s free agency signing was a great one by the Lakers brass.
D’Moi Hodge – Signed In July 2023 (Two-Way Contract)
As in the case with any player on a two-way contract, D’Moi Hodge might not even be on the final roster next season. However, as of this moment, Hodge is a Lakers guard. The 6’4” shooting guard born in the British Virgin Islands is 24 years old and while we have yet to see him in professional action, it will be interesting to see if he can hold a permanent roster spot.
Jalen Hood-Schifino – Drafted No. 17 Overall In 2023 Draft
The highest-drafted player by the Los Angeles Lakers is Jalen Hood-Schifino, a 6’6” shooting guard taken No. 17 overall in the 2023 Draft. The shooting guard out of Indiana University is only 20 years old and has the size and potential to forge a decent bench role if he gets off to a quick start. It is never easy for a 20-year-old rookie to find minutes on a title-contending team, but Hood-Schifino does have some expectations because his skills are evident to the naked eye.
Maxwell Lewis – Drafted No. 40 Overall In 2023 Draft
Maxwell Lewis was taken No. 40 overall in the 2023 Draft, and the 6’7” small forward will be needed to fortify the perimeter defense in case of any injuries to major players coming off the bench. Lewis probably won’t feature that much in the 2023-24 season because he is behind in the pecking order of wing players, but if he can get a run in some games during the regular season, it would benefit the 21-year-old in the long run.
Cam Reddish – Signed In June 2023 (Free Agency)
It was quite shocking that Cam Reddish was available for only a 2-year, $4.63 million deal in free agency. The former Duke star has not been able to kick off his career, averaging only 10.3 PPG and 3.0 RPG on 32.2% shooting. Reddish was expected to be a major two-way player and has not found his footing with the Atlanta Hawks, New York Knicks, or Portland Trail Blazers. At under $2.5 million per season, Reddish is an excellent low-risk, high-reward player.
Reddish is only 23 years old and the writing is not on the wall for such a talented player. If the Lakers can get the best out of him, Reddish could be a major player for the team because his athleticism as a 6’8” forward is off the charts. He must develop a consistent outside jumper because if he continues to shoot below 33%, it will be hard for the Lakers to trust him to be on the court with LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Regardless, Reddish should be a better player in the 2023-24 season.
Max Christie – Drafted No. 35 Overall In 2022 Draft
Max Christie has potential which is why the Lakers selected him No. 35 overall in the 2022 NBA Draft. Christie, at 6’6”, has the size to be an impactful shooting guard as he continues to improve his offensive game. The 20-year-old is more than a solid athlete and has natural defensive skills, and while that is impressive, not being able to space the floor enough in the modern NBA means he might fall slightly behind in the pecking order.
Regardless, Christie’s potential is there to see which is why he continues to be on the Lakers depth chart. The Lakers are contending which means Christie needs to literally over-impress the Lakers coaches to earn heavy minutes, but being a naturally gifted defender is a great way for the youngster to play important bench minutes throughout the regular season.
Taurean Prince – Signed In June 2023 (Free Agency)
Taurean Prince is an excellent backup forward because he has great size at 6’7” and 218 lbs and can defend multiple positions. He has great quickness, strength, and a solid vertical meaning he can occupy both the small forward and power forward spots. This past season, Prince shot over 38% from three and that is a number that will absolutely work.
As long as Prince can defend and nail open three-pointers, he will find minutes on this Lakers roster. LeBron James and Anthony Davis cause constant double-teams which means the corner three will be available. Considering Prince has seven years under his belt, the player has learned how to stroke the ball and will only get better looks with the amount of star power around him.
Rui Hachimura – Traded In February 2023
Rui Hachimura was an exceptional addition by the Lakers before the 2023 trade deadline because he brings an above-average two-way play at the power forward position. At 6’8” and 230 lbs, the Japanese player has great size to be an immovable force in the post and has an exceptional mid-range game. For the Lakers, Rui averaged 9.6 PPG and 4.7 RPG but took his numbers to 12.2 PPG and 3.6 RPG in the playoffs.
Hachimura is a trustworthy scorer and a solid defender meaning he will be the go-to 6th man for the Lakers whenever he isn’t starting alongside Anthony Davis depending on the matchups. Hachimura was re-signed to a 3-year, $51 million deal and that is a great contract for the Lakers to absorb because the player is only 25 years old with plenty of time to get better. LeBron James and company are very fond of Hachimura and he is yet another new face on the team that has basically been deemed untouchable.
Colin Castleton – Signed In July 2023 (Two-Way Contract)
Collin Castleton is currently on a two-way contract as a 6’11” big man. The 23-year-old might not even be on the Lakers roster next season but time will tell if he can convince Darvin Ham and the coaching staff that he truly belongs on a title-contending team that needs enough bodies to cover the often-injured Anthony Davis.
Jaxson Hayes – Signed In June 2023 (Free Agency)
Another ingenious move by Rob Pelinka was bringing on board 23-year-old Jaxson Hayes. Hayes, at 6’11”, is an above-average athlete at his size and will continue to get used to being a primary rebounder and rim-roller. Hayes has career averages of 7.5 PPG and 4.0 RPG which means he can be a reliable backup big man to Anthony Davis.
Hopefully, the former No. 8 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft can convince Darvin Ham and company that he deserves at least 20 MPG because his athleticism is truly an important part of his game. Having a backup center that can run the floor well and also block shots sign a 2-year, $4,628,946 deal means that the Lakers once again have another low-risk, high-reward player on their impressive depth chart.
