Lakers Projected Starting Lineup and Depth Chart for 2025-26 Season
The Los Angeles Lakers entered the 2025 offseason facing questions about their future — and whether LeBron James would have the supporting cast he needs in the twilight of his career. After a slow start, GM Rob Pelinka managed to turn things around with a trio of key acquisitions that reshaped expectations for the upcoming season.
From Jake LaRavia’s sharpshooting, to DeAndre Ayton’s inside presence, to Marcus Smart’s defensive grit, the Lakers look deeper and more versatile than they did a year ago. Now the focus shifts to how head coach JJ Redick will balance this roster — and manage LeBron’s minutes — as Los Angeles pushes to reestablish itself as a Western Conference contender.
The Los Angeles Lakers traditional depth chart
| Position | Starting Lineup | Bench | Second Bench |
|---|---|---|---|
| PG | Luka Dončić | Marcus Smart | Gabe Vincent |
| SG | Austin Reaves | Dalton Knecht | Bronny James |
| SF | LeBron James | Jarred Vanderbilt | Adou Thiero |
| PF | Rui Hachimura | Jake LaRavia | Maxi Kleber |
| C | DeAndre Ayton | Jaxson Hayes | Christian Koloko |
Key Offseason Additions
Jake LaRavia
The 23-year-old forward signed with Los Angeles after leaving Memphis, and he projects as an immediate rotation piece. His floor spacing and ability to guard multiple positions give the Lakers a flexible weapon off the bench.
DeAndre Ayton
Ayton may not have been Lakers fans’ first choice, but he fills a major need at center. Expected to start over Jaxson Hayes, Ayton brings elite efficiency around the rim — ranking third in the NBA since 2021 among players with at least 1,000 attempts in restricted-area scoring (76%). If his defense holds up, he could be the stabilizer the frontcourt has been missing.
Marcus Smart
The former Defensive Player of the Year joins the Lakers after injury setbacks derailed his run in Memphis and Boston. His toughness, leadership, and defensive playmaking should add balance to a backcourt that struggled with consistency last year.
Bronny James’ Role in Year Two
Bronny James spent most of his rookie campaign developing in the G League, sharpening his shooting, defense, and playmaking. His performance in the 2025 NBA Summer League showed progress — he looked more confident as a scorer and facilitator, even if the Lakers’ record didn’t reflect it.
The question now is whether he can carve out a role in JJ Redick’s rotation. With Gabe Vincent holding down backup guard duties, Bronny will need to prove in preseason that he can impact games on both ends. At just 20 years old, the Lakers can afford patience — but a breakout could fast-track him into a steady bench role.
Managing LeBron’s Minutes
LeBron James enters his 22nd NBA season — and at 40 years old, he remains among the league leaders in minutes per game. Last season, he still averaged 34.9 minutes nightly, though his scoring dipped below 25 points for the first time since his rookie year.
Redick’s challenge will be finding the balance between preserving LeBron’s health and keeping the Lakers competitive. With Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, LaRavia, and Maxi Kleber available to soak up minutes at forward, Los Angeles has more depth than ever to allow James extra rest.
Ayton’s Fit at Center
The Lakers pursued several bigs before settling on DeAndre Ayton, and while his defense remains a question mark, his offensive efficiency makes him a strong fit alongside LeBron and Luka Dončić. Ayton provides a reliable lob target and interior finisher, and his ability to run the floor could open up new looks in Redick’s offense.
The gamble is clear: if Ayton’s motor and defensive engagement stay consistent, he could be the missing piece inside. If not, the Lakers may have to adjust quickly.
Projected Lakers Starting Lineup (2025-26)
- PG: Luka Dončić
- SG: Marcus Smart
- SF: LeBron James
- PF: Rui Hachimura
- C: DeAndre Ayton
Key Bench Rotation
- Gabe Vincent / Bronny James – backup guards
- Jake LaRavia / Jarred Vanderbilt / Maxi Kleber – forward depth
- Jaxson Hayes – reserve center
Final Outlook
Last season’s early playoff exit left Lakers fans restless, but this roster feels more balanced. The additions of Smart, Ayton, and LaRavia give JJ Redick more tools to work with, while Bronny James’ growth adds intrigue to the bench.
LeBron’s minutes must be managed carefully, but with Luka Dončić now leading the offense and a deeper supporting cast around him, Los Angeles looks poised to challenge in the West once again.
If everything clicks, the Lakers could be headed back toward championship contention — and maybe, just maybe, convince LeBron to give it one more year in purple and gold.
