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The LA Lakers have had an eventful offseason, which saw them add some dynamic talents like Marc Gasol and Dennis Schroder. The reigning champs can roll out a strong death lineup in important games in the 2020-21 NBA season. The new additions could help them close games against strong opposition, especially in the playoffs.
Predicting LA Lakers' death lineup for 2020-21 season
LA Lakers head coach Frank Vogel has always strongly emphasized maintaining intensity in the closing minutes. Here is the potential 'death lineup' that he might roll out next season.
#1- LeBron James, Point Guard
Needless to say, LeBron James will be present on the floor for the LA Lakers in the closing minutes at the point guard position. James was prolific in the 2020 NBA Playoffs, as he displayed his scoring prowess alongside his exceptional ability to make plays while taking contact.
LeBron James has been one of the most clutch players in the league, and at 35 years of age, started every one of his 67 games last season. He put up stellar numbers, averaging 25 points, and led the league with over 10 assists per game.
The LA Lakers will be heavily-dependent on the 4-time Finals MVP next season as well, especially to close games in the postseason, as the team will look to win back-to-back titles.
#2- Anthony Davis, Power Forward
Since his acquisition from the New Orleans Pelicans, Anthony Davis has proven that he can stake a claim to be one of the 5 best players in the NBA. The dominant big was crucial to the LA Lakers' championship success last season, as he took command in the paint on both ends of the floor.
An efficient scorer and a strong rim protector, Anthony Davis will play as a power forward for the LA Lakers in the closing minutes. Davis played the same role in last year's playoffs, taking the responsibility of guarding the opposition's best scorer in each series.
Also read: Predicting the LA Lakers' starting 5 for the 2020-21 NBA season
#3- Dennis Schroder, Shooting guard
Dennis Schroeder was recently acquired by the LA Lakers from OKC Thunder and will be replacing Rajon Rondo next season. However, Rondo was not a part of the LA Lakers' death lineup last season, while Schroeder is certain to take up the 2 guard position for the reigning champions.
Schroeder was pivotal to OKC Thunder's success last season, as the team made the postseason and even took the Houston Rockets in the first round. The former Atlanta Hawks guard was a part of the 3 guard closing lineup OKC Thunder opted for and ranked as the 6th most clutch player in the NBA last season.
#4- Kentavious Caldwell Pope, Small Forward
Kentavious Caldwell Pope was a free agent this offseason but managed to secure a $40 million 3-year deal, re-signing with the Lakers. Although not the most prolific scorer on the Lakers, KCP was the side's 3rd best player in the bubble behind James and Davis and improved his defensive rating last season.
The reason behind him landing the massive contract is his performance in the playoffs, especially in the closing moments. KCP's used closing minutes to display his efficient 3 point shooting and strong perimeter defense. Pope posted a positive plus-minus in the clutch as per NBA's data and is set to be a part of the LA Lakers' death lineup next season.
#5- Marc Gasol/Montrezl Harrell, Center
There is uncertainty around who the LA Lakers will play at the center position in the closing minutes, with both Gasol and Harrell staking a claim for the spot. Both were acquired recently, and head coach Frank Vogel will have to pick one to play at the 5 as a part of the death lineup.
If last postseason is to be taken into account, Marc Gasol seems to be a better alternative than Harrell for the center position. Harrell was poor for the LA Clippers as a closer, to the point where Doc Rivers had to sub him out for young center Ivica Zubac.
On the other hand, Marc Gasol has proved that he can be a reliable option in the clutch, as the former Memphis Grizzlies star displayed in the Toronto Raptors title win in 2019.
