The Los Angeles Lakers have an extremely busy summer this year as they look to maintain their core of LeBron James and Anthony Davis while continuing to surround them with top talent. Despite winning the NBA title in 2019-20, the Lakers have not yet achieved the same level of success since but we have constructed the most realistic roster and plan for them this summer.
NBA Draft Night: Zach Edey And Bronny James
Credit: Fadeaway World
The Lakers can utilize their No. 17 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft to select Zach Edey, a dominant force from Purdue who led the Boilermakers to the Final Four. Edey’s collegiate statistics are eye-popping, averaging 30.0 points, 16.3 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 0.8 steals, and 1.8 blocks per game.
His towering presence and ability to control the paint both offensively and defensively will provide the Lakers with a formidable inside threat, complementing their star-studded roster. Edey’s rebounding prowess and shot-blocking ability are expected to translate well to the NBA, making him an instant impact player for the Lakers.
With their No. 55 pick, the Lakers can take a calculated risk by selecting Bronny James. While not projected as a top-tier prospect, Bronny offers potential as a shooter and defender. More importantly, his selection is strategic; it paves the way for his father, LeBron James, to realize his dream of playing alongside his son. LeBron’s desire to share the court with Bronny could be a significant factor in his decision to re-sign with the Lakers.
LeBron James Re-Signs For Two More Seasons
Credit: Andrew Wevers-USA TODAY Sports
LeBron James, still one of the most impactful players in the NBA, can re-sign with the Lakers for two more seasons on a max deal in all likelihood after The King might reject his $51.4M player option this summer. As he approaches his 40th birthday, LeBron remains a premier leader and a top-tier player, bringing unparalleled experience and skill to the team. His decision to stay in Los Angeles not only solidifies his legacy with the franchise but also keeps the Lakers in championship contention.
The prospect of playing alongside his son, Bronny, adds an exciting narrative to the upcoming seasons. This historic father-son duo will attract immense media attention and fan interest, while also enhancing team chemistry. LeBron’s commitment to the Lakers, combined with his enduring talent, ensures that the Lakers will be a formidable force in the NBA, capable of competing at the highest level and potentially adding another championship banner to the rafters. After all, how can we predict James will show a steep decline after posting 25.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game this past season?
Lakers Land Zach LaVine In A Blockbuster Trade
Credit: Fadeaway World
The Lakers can pull off a blockbuster trade to acquire Zach LaVine, forming a new Big Three alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. LaVine’s scoring ability, athleticism, and shooting prowess perfectly complement the existing star power in Los Angeles.
Trade Details
Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Zach LaVine
Chicago Bulls Receive: D’Angelo Russell (Sign-and-trade), Rui Hachimura, Jalen Hood-Schifino, 2029 First-Round Pick
Known for his explosive scoring and ability to create his own shot, LaVine provides the Lakers with a dynamic offensive weapon that can lighten the scoring load on LeBron and Davis. Even if LaVine’s numbers were down this year (19.5 PPG on 34.9% from three), the 28-year-old star can easily post at least 20 points per game at his career clip of 38.2% from deep. LaVine’s arrival fits seamlessly with the Lakers’ strategy of surrounding their superstars with elite talent.
His ability to space the floor and score from anywhere on the court will create more opportunities for LeBron and Davis to operate. Furthermore, LaVine’s defensive capabilities, often overlooked, will be crucial in maintaining the Lakers’ competitiveness on both ends of the floor because he can switch on defense and especially run the floor on the fast break.
A Successful Free Agency Period
Credit: Fadeaway World
The Lakers’ successful free agency period can see them replenish their roster with savvy veteran signings. Kyle Lowry, turning 39 years old next year, joins on a veteran minimum deal ($3,313,453), bringing his championship experience, smart playmaking, and reliable shooting to the team. This past season, the veteran posted 8.1 points and 4.2 assists per game on 39.2% from three.
Lowry’s leadership and clutch performances in critical moments will be invaluable, particularly in the playoffs. Additionally, a player like the 34-year-old Gordon Hayward, seeking to rejuvenate his career, signing a veteran minimum deal worth $3,313,453, can offer the Lakers a versatile and skilled bench scorer who can provide a significant offensive boost when needed. This past season, Hayward averaged 9.8 points and 3.5 rebounds per game on 41.1% from three.
Finally, Jonas Valanciunas, who could be available with the mid-level exception ($5,183,000), adds crucial depth to the Lakers’ frontcourt. As a backup to Anthony Davis and a potential starter in some games, Valanciunas’ rebounding, scoring, and physicality will be essential in fortifying the Lakers’ interior presence. This season, the big man posted 12.2 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks per game on 55.9% from the field and 30.8% from three.
The Lakers’ strategy to target experienced veterans and smart players, reminiscent of their 2020 championship team, ensures a well-rounded and competitive roster. These strategic additions enhance the Lakers’ depth, toughness, and versatility, making them a formidable contender for the 2024-25 season.
Lakers Most Realistic Depth Chart For 2024-25
Credit: Fadeaway World
Starters: Kyle Lowry, Zach LaVine, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Zach Edey
Key Bench Players: Bronny James, Gabe Vincent, Austin Reaves, Gordon Hayward, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jonas Valanciunas
The Lakers’ projected depth chart for the 2024-25 season showcases a blend of seasoned veterans and promising young talents. The starting lineup, featuring Kyle Lowry, Zach LaVine, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Zach Edey, balances experience, athleticism, and skill. Lowry’s playmaking and shooting set the tone, while LaVine’s scoring ability and athleticism complement LeBron’s all-around brilliance. Davis and Edey form a formidable frontcourt duo, combining defensive prowess with inside scoring and rebounding dominance.
Off the bench, the Lakers boast a mix of youthful energy and veteran savvy. Bronny James offers defensive potential and shooting, Gabe Vincent and Austin Reaves provide scoring and versatility, and Gordon Hayward brings a reliable scoring punch. Jarred Vanderbilt’s defensive versatility and Jonas Valanciunas’ inside presence round out a deep and balanced roster. With this depth chart, the Lakers are well-equipped to handle the rigors of an 82-game season and the intensity of playoff basketball, positioning themselves as strong title favorites for the 2024-25 campaign.
