The Los Angeles Lakers' 2026-27 season rotation is taking shape under third-year coach JJ Redick, with Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves anchoring the offense.
Luka Dončić is the undisputed offensive engine. His size, playmaking, and unlimited shooting range make him the primary focus for every opposing defense. Coach Redick plans to pair him with Austin Reaves in the backcourt, creating a potent scoring and playmaking duo.
Defensively, Quentin Grimes is expected to claim a starting role. He'll likely guard the opponent's top perimeter threat, shielding Dončić from that demanding assignment. Two of the five starting jobs are genuinely up for grabs as preseason begins.
Collin Sexton is projected as the primary backup point guard. He provides the dribble-pass-shoot versatility Redick wants off the bench. The options behind him are deep.
Bronny James, Jaden Hardy, and Grimes will compete for minutes. James is seen as an unselfish role player and willing defender. Hardy, meanwhile, has emphasized his commitment to defense despite being known as a scorer. The Lakers also have defensive specialists like Matisse Thybulle and Jarred Vanderbilt for specific matchups.
The reserve list is long and crowded. Beyond the primary guards, players like Ziaire Williams, Adou Thiero, Jake LaRavia, and rookie Cameron Carr are in the mix. Dalton Knecht, with 16 players on standard contracts, appears to be the early candidate to be waived.
This depth gives Redick flexibility. He can use players like Thybulle, Vanderbilt, or Williams as point-of-attack defenders when needed. The preseason games will be vital for sorting out this logjam.
The Lakers' recent results show a team finding its rhythm.
With a completely reshaped roster following LeBron James' departure to Philadelphia, this preseason is about building chemistry. The matchups against Sacramento and others will test Redick's early rotations. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming games on our schedule page. The goal is to translate positive preseason vibes into consistent wins in a loaded Western Conference.
