As the Los Angeles Lakers wrap up their preseason and gear up for the regular season, it’s clear that they’ve made significant strides in preparation for what they hope will be a deep playoff run. The preseason offered valuable insights into the team’s chemistry, new additions, and rotations, as well as key areas for improvement. Here’s what we learned from the Lakers’ preseason:

1. Anthony Davis Looks Ready to Dominate

One of the most encouraging signs for the Lakers heading into the regular season is the form of Anthony Davis. AD has been aggressive on both ends of the floor, showing his ability to anchor the defense while also being a dominant force on offense. He’s looked healthy and locked in, which is crucial for the Lakers’ success. His presence in the paint and his versatility to stretch the floor have been standout features throughout the preseason.

Davis also appears ready to take on more responsibility as the team’s go-to player, particularly as LeBron James may take a step back in terms of minutes management during the regular season. If AD can stay healthy and maintain this form, the Lakers will have a legitimate shot at contending for the title.

2. LeBron James is Still LeBron – Managing His Role

At age 39, LeBron James continues to defy Father Time. While he played limited minutes during the preseason, he’s shown that he can still impact the game in all facets—scoring, playmaking, and leadership. LeBron’s ability to manage the flow of the game will be key for the Lakers, especially as they seek to preserve his health for the long haul.

LeBron’s role may shift slightly this season, with the Lakers possibly reducing his regular-season workload to ensure he’s fresh for the playoffs. This strategy could also give the younger players on the roster more opportunities to step up, which was evident throughout the preseason.

3. D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves Are in Sync

One of the most promising takeaways from the preseason was the chemistry between D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves in the backcourt. Both players looked comfortable sharing playmaking duties, with Reaves showing continued development as a secondary ball-handler and shot creator, while Russell’s playmaking and shot-making abilities were on full display.

Reaves, who had a breakout postseason last year, appears poised for another leap this season. He’s continued to improve his shooting, decision-making, and defense, while Russell’s improved consistency and maturity have made him a key offensive weapon. Their synergy in the backcourt could be a major asset for the Lakers, providing the team with flexibility in their guard rotation.

4. Depth and Versatility Are Strengths

The Lakers have assembled one of the deepest and most versatile rosters they’ve had in recent years. During the preseason, players like Rui Hachimura, Christian Wood, and Taurean Prince showed that they can be reliable contributors off the bench. Hachimura, in particular, has looked sharp, showcasing his mid-range scoring and defensive versatility.

Christian Wood’s ability to stretch the floor as a big man adds a new dynamic to the Lakers’ offense, and his chemistry with AD is something to watch as the season progresses. Meanwhile, Prince’s 3-and-D presence gives the Lakers a valuable option on the wing.

Additionally, Max Christie has made significant strides in his second year, showing improved defense and shooting, which could earn him a spot in the regular rotation. The depth and versatility of the roster will give head coach Darvin Ham the flexibility to mix and match lineups depending on matchups and game situations.

5. New Additions Are Finding Their Roles

The Lakers brought in several new faces this offseason, including Gabe Vincent, Taurean Prince, and Christian Wood. Throughout the preseason, each player has shown glimpses of what they can bring to the table.

• Gabe Vincent has proven to be a steady backup point guard, offering defense, toughness, and timely shot-making. His playoff experience with the Miami Heat could be invaluable for the Lakers down the stretch.
• Christian Wood has shown his ability to space the floor and score from different spots, though his defense remains an area for improvement. Wood’s versatility allows the Lakers to experiment with lineups, and his partnership with Anthony Davis could be critical in the frontcourt.
• Taurean Prince has fit seamlessly into his 3-and-D role, providing much-needed shooting and defensive versatility. His ability to guard multiple positions makes him a perfect fit for Darvin Ham’s system.

6. Defensive Focus

Darvin Ham has emphasized defense since taking over as head coach, and the Lakers’ preseason performances reflected that commitment. With the addition of defensive-minded players like Prince and the continued development of young defenders like Max Christie, the Lakers are shaping up to be one of the better defensive teams in the league.

Anthony Davis remains the anchor of the defense, and if he can stay healthy, the Lakers’ interior defense will be formidable. The team’s ability to switch on defense and use their length and athleticism to disrupt passing lanes was evident in their preseason games. However, there’s still room for improvement, especially in defending the perimeter and staying consistent in their defensive intensity.

7. Rotations Still Taking Shape

While the Lakers have a deep roster, Darvin Ham’s rotations are still evolving. The preseason offered a glimpse into potential lineups, but the regular season will provide more clarity on how the rotation will shape up. Players like Max Christie, Jaxson Hayes, and even rookie Jalen Hood-Schifino showed flashes but will have to compete for consistent minutes.

The key for the Lakers will be balancing their star players’ minutes with developing the younger talent while maintaining continuity in their rotations. Ham’s ability to maximize his lineup’s versatility will be critical to the team’s success.

Final Thoughts

Heading into the regular season, the Lakers look focused and prepared. With a healthy Anthony Davis, a recharged LeBron James, and a deep, versatile roster, the Lakers have all the pieces needed to make a serious run at the title. The chemistry, defensive intensity, and the contributions from new and returning players are promising signs for Lakers fans.

As the regular season begins, the Lakers are “locked in” and ready to compete in what will be a highly competitive Western Conference. If they can stay healthy and continue to build on the lessons learned from the preseason, this team could be one of the most dangerous in the league.