Danny Green, a member of the Los Angeles Lakers' 2020 championship team, has endorsed the franchise's dramatic offseason moves while issuing a clear warning about postseason readiness. His comments come as the Lakers handle a new era with 11 new players and without LeBron James.
Green gave his verdict during an interview at a recent Lakers community event. He praised the front office's activity this summer. "I liked a lot of the pieces they picked up," Green said. He noted the team added depth, youth, and speed. But his endorsement came with a significant caveat about playoff basketball.
"I think they're going to be a pretty good regular season team," Green stated. "Playoffs, I don't know because of the youth and experience, but I like the moves they made." The three-time champion identified the core as Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves in the backcourt, with new addition Walker Kessler as the defensive anchor in the middle.
Beyond the established stars, Green pointed to several players who could swing the team's fortunes. He named rookie Cameron Carr, Ziaire Williams, Sandro Mamukelashvili, and Collin Sexton as potential difference-makers. He specifically highlighted Sexton's defensive versatility and ability to play point guard.
"Those three guys, to me, can be X-factors for the group, like what Jake (LaRavia) was last year," Green explained. He added that LaRavia himself could carry that role forward and improve. The headline acquisition, Walker Kessler, carries the clearest expectation. He was brought in specifically to repair the Los Angeles defense, a major need after last season's playoff exit.
The team's ability to bounce back from a heavy loss with a strong victory is a positive sign. But the playoff gauntlet demands a different level of consistency, which is where Green's experience-based concern lies.
The offseason changes were sweeping. LeBron James' departure to Philadelphia headlined an exodus that included Rui Hachimura (Clippers), Luke Kennard (Suns), and Deandre Ayton (traded to Washington). In total, Los Angeles brought in 11 new faces this summer.
Key retentions were vital. Austin Reaves re-signed on a massive four-year deal. The trade for Walker Kessler cost a significant package of picks and players sent to Utah. The roster now leans heavily on its new foundation. Finding the right role players to complement Doncic, Reaves, and Kessler is the immediate task. Fans can track the evolving team chemistry and player stats on our official roster page throughout the season.
Green's perspective is rooted in recent history. The Lakers went 53-29 last season, won a first-round series in six games, but were then swept in four straight by Oklahoma City. That second-round collapse underlined the margin for error in the playoffs. His warning is a direct reflection of that reality, suggesting the front office's work is not finished. The true test for this young group will come next spring.
