Basketball enthusiasts have reason to celebrate as the Los Angeles Lakers kick off their preseason in less than three weeks. While the offseason brought thrilling roster changes, fans are stepping into the post-LeBron James chapter with a mix of curiosity, uncertainty, and a dash of doubt.
For many, including myself, September signifies an unquenchable thirst for NBA action, especially with the Lakers officially commencing the Luka Dončić era.
Drawing inspiration from our friends across the league — as much as one can say that about Celtics fans — I aim to predict statistical milestones for each Lakers player. Some might sound far-fetched, while others could be crucial to a successful season. Let’s dive in!
Luka Dončić Wins MVP
Breaking tradition slightly, I’m projecting an award instead of stats here. Dončić’s résumé features Rookie of the Year, two scoring titles, six All-Star nods, and a Finals run, with the MVP being a notable omission. Last season, he averaged 33.5 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.7 rebounds, pushing the Lakers to a No. 4 seed, echoing a rare stat line only matched by himself historically. Among a legendary list of players with similar accolades, Dončić stands out as the only one yet to capture the MVP. If the Lakers exceed expectations and Luka delivers another stellar season, MVP consideration should be non-negotiable.
Austin Reaves to Average 25+ Points
Reaves’ journey is a testament to relentless improvement, rising each year since joining the Lakers as an undrafted free agent. Before a midseason calf injury slowed him, he was performing at an All-Star pace, averaging 27.3 points over 22 games with key teammates sidelined. With LeBron gone, Reaves moves firmly into that secondary creator role, having already proved his capability alongside Dončić — now, staying healthy will be key.
Walker Kessler’s 17 Points, 12 Rebounds, 2 Blocks Per Game
Much hinges on whether Kessler justifies his $30 million annual salary, as he’s yet to make an All-Star team despite his pay scale. While an All-Star nod may not be on the horizon, his impact could grow significantly playing alongside stars like Dončić and Reaves. His numbers improved noticeably in limited play last season, including more three-point attempts, suggesting he could thrive with an optimized role.
Quentin Grimes Starts Every Game He Plays
Grimes is a vital defensive presence and a reliable off-ball threat, crucial for safeguarding the Lakers’ often vulnerable backcourt. Having started less than half of his career games, his role on this team appears secured unless LA acquires another wing talent who matches his skillset. Not to mention, he has JJ Redick’s approval.
Sandro Mamukelashvili Hits 50/40/70 Shooting Splits
These shooting percentages align closely with Mamu’s career marks, with a hopeful breakout from long range this season. His 42.3% three-point accuracy as a rookie came on limited attempts, so an expanded role in one of the league’s top offenses could elevate those numbers.
Collin Sexton Keeps Double-Digit Scoring Streak Alive
Sexton has never averaged below 10 points in any of his eight NBA seasons. As a primary bench scorer and ball-handler behind Reaves and Dončić, maintaining this streak seems well within reach.
Jake LaRavia Shoots 38% from Three
Lakers fans were frustrated last season when LaRavia’s sharpshooting didn’t materialize, dropping 10 percentage points from his previous year. I believe last season was an anomaly and expect him to bounce back closer to his 38% three-point clip.
Jarred Vanderbilt Starts in at Least 40 Games
Like colleague Darius Soriano, I’m hopeful Vanderbilt can make a meaningful impact, especially defensively where he excels despite not always shining on the stat sheet. Ranked No. 1 in defensive versatility and seventh in defensive rebounding, Vanderbilt’s skill set is valuable, particularly with a power forward spot wide open.
Ziaire Williams Shoots 40% from Three
With elite playmakers surrounding him for the first time, Williams has the potential to become a reliable catch-and-shoot wing, boosting his shooting numbers significantly.
Matisse Thybulle Achieves Four Games with 4+ Points, Rebounds and Steals
A somewhat ambitious prediction, this “Thybulle Four-for-Four” has only occurred nine times in his career. Four such games in one season may be a stretch, but it’s a fun benchmark to track.
Kevon Looney Records a 15-Rebound Game
Though listed as a backup center, Looney’s minutes may be limited behind Kessler and Mamukelashvili. Still, opportunities may arise for him to show flashes of his former dominance.
Jaden Hardy Scores 20+ Points in a Game
A quieter but important offseason move was adding depth—and Hardy is a capable scorer who could have breakout nights despite being a long-shot for consistent court time.
Bronny James Records Multiple Games with 6 Assists and 3 Steals
Showing improved defensive skills and ball handling last year, Bronny has a real chance to impress in the rotation behind Sexton as a backup guard.
Adou Thiero Ranks Top-40 in Made Dunks
Thiero aims for a bigger role this year and, through impact plays and acrobatics reminiscent of elite dunkers like Zion Williamson, owning a top-40 dunks spot is within reach.
Cameron Carr Has a Game with Five Made 3-Pointers
Though his role remains uncertain, Carr showed his perimeter shooting prowess in college and summer leagues, suggesting he could torch a game from deep.
Dalton Knecht Scores 30 Points in a Game
This bold prediction might seem outrageous, especially given his current standing, but a surprise breakout 30-point game wouldn’t be out of character for Knecht’s unpredictable journey.
Fan Take:
This detailed forecast highlights the Lakers’ exciting mixture of proven stars and emerging talent, signaling a potential reshaping of their identity in the post-LeBron era. For basketball fans, this season could represent a thrilling shift, showcasing fresh narratives and new stars rising in the league’s spotlight.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
