After making several big changes at the last trade deadline and surprisingly advancing to the brink of the NBA Finals, the Lakers decided they didn’t need their annual roster overhaul and largely tried to maintain continuity around LeBron James and Anthony Davis this time around.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James, center, tries to go up for a shot as Golden State Warriors guard Brandin Podziemski, left, and guard Gary Payton II defend during the first half of an NBA preseason basketball game Friday, Oct. 13, 2023, in Los Angeles. Milwaukee Bucks guard Malik Beasley, left, reaches in on Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis during the first half of an NBA preseason basketball game Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023, in Los Angeles. Los Angeles Lakers guard Scotty Pippen Jr.
What to expect: After making several big changes to a struggling team at the last trade deadline and subsequently streaking into the NBA’s final four, the Lakers decided they didn’t need their annual roster overhaul. GM Rob Pelinka largely tried to maintain continuity around James and Anthony Davis this time around. As a result, they appear to have their most cohesive roster since their championship season in 2020.
Player to watch: Russell. The much-traveled point guard excelled after rejoining the Lakers, but was relegated to a minor role in the conference finals against Denver after ineffective play. He still re-signed with LA, and Ham confidently declared Russell his starting point guard before training camp began, even with the Lakers’ addition of Vincent.
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