The Los Angeles Lakers are a team constantly under the microscope, and their roster composition always invites endless debate. As they adapt to their evolving identity, considering hypothetical lineups is a fascinating exercise. JJ Redick, with his analytical mind and deep understanding of basketball dynamics, could craft intriguing starting lineups tailored to different scenarios. Let’s explore three potential lineups Redick might deploy for the new-look Lakers.
1. The Traditional Powerhouse Lineup
This lineup emphasizes balance and utilizes the Lakers’ star power to control games both offensively and defensively.
- PG: D’Angelo Russell
- SG: Austin Reaves
- SF: LeBron James
- PF: Anthony Davis
- C: Jaxson Hayes
Why This Works:
This lineup maintains a classic structure with a true center anchoring the paint. Jaxson Hayes’ athleticism and defensive presence allow Anthony Davis to play his preferred power forward role, reducing his wear and tear. Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell provide complementary scoring and playmaking, while LeBron orchestrates the offense as a point forward. This unit thrives in half-court sets and creates mismatches with LeBron and AD’s versatility.
When to Use It:
Ideal for matchups against teams with dominant big men, like the Denver Nuggets or Milwaukee Bucks, this lineup provides the physicality needed to compete on the boards and protect the rim.
2. The Small-Ball Speedsters
For games where pace and spacing are critical, this lineup leans into small-ball principles to maximize speed and shooting.
- PG: Gabe Vincent
- SG: Austin Reaves
- SF: LeBron James
- PF: Rui Hachimura
- C: Anthony Davis
Why This Works:
This lineup sacrifices size for agility and offensive spacing. Gabe Vincent’s defensive tenacity and ability to stretch the floor complement Austin Reaves’ versatility. Rui Hachimura’s scoring touch and mobility add another dimension, while Anthony Davis anchors the defense as the lone big. LeBron remains the central playmaker, surrounded by shooters and cutters to maximize his passing lanes.
When to Use It:
Perfect against teams that rely on perimeter-oriented offenses, such as the Golden State Warriors or Dallas Mavericks. This lineup enables the Lakers to switch defensively and push the tempo offensively.
3. The Defensive Juggernaut
For grind-it-out games, this lineup prioritizes defense, length, and physicality to disrupt opponents.
- PG: Gabe Vincent
- SG: Jarred Vanderbilt
- SF: LeBron James
- PF: Anthony Davis
- C: Jaxson Hayes
Why This Works:
This unit is built to lock down opponents. Gabe Vincent and Jarred Vanderbilt bring energy and defensive IQ to the backcourt, while LeBron and AD’s versatility allow them to guard multiple positions. Jaxson Hayes adds shot-blocking and rebounding, ensuring the Lakers dominate the paint. While this lineup may sacrifice some offensive firepower, it can stifle opponents and create transition opportunities from turnovers.
When to Use It:
Best suited for playoff-style matchups against elite offenses, like the Phoenix Suns or Boston Celtics. This lineup thrives in low-scoring, high-intensity games where every possession counts.
Conclusion
JJ Redick’s hypothetical lineups showcase the Lakers’ versatility and depth, providing options to adapt to various game scenarios. Whether leveraging star power, embracing small-ball dynamics, or locking in defensively, these lineups highlight the team’s potential to contend at the highest level. While the final decisions rest with the coaching staff, these configurations illustrate how a basketball mind like Redick’s could approach maximizing the Lakers’ talent this season.
