The Los Angeles Lakers are set to begin preseason basketball in just under three weeks. Fans are entering a new phase in the post-LeBron James era, mixed with intrigue and skepticism after significant roster changes this offseason. Here are some bold statistical predictions for each player on the Lakers’ roster.
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Luka Dončić is predicted to be a strong MVP candidate. Recently, he averaged 33.5 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.7 rebounds per game last season, leading the Dallas Mavericks to the Finals and finishing third in MVP voting. He has won multiple accolades, including Rookie of the Year and two scoring titles, yet has yet to secure an MVP award.
Austin Reaves is forecasted to average over 25 points per game. He has shown remarkable improvement yearly since joining the Lakers as an undrafted free agent. Before a midseason injury last season, he averaged 27.3 points, 6.5 assists, and 5.4 rebounds per game, making a significant impact as a secondary creator now that James is no longer on the team.
Walker Kessler is expected to average 17 points, 12 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game. Kessler, one of the highest-paid big men without an All-Star nod, will benefit from playing alongside the Lakers' star backcourt. His numbers showed improvement last season, and with more opportunities, this prediction seems achievable.
Quentin Grimes is poised to start every game he plays. As a dynamic two-guard and an excellent defender, his role alongside the Lakers' backcourt is essential. He has started 146 of his 318 career regular-season games, showcasing his potential to consistently secure a starting position.
Sandro Mamukelashvili is anticipated to achieve shooting splits of at least 50/40/70. His career shooting percentages are close to this prediction, driven by an expected advancement in his three-point shooting in a potent Lakers offense this season.
Collin Sexton is likely to continue his streak of averaging double-digit points, having never fallen under the threshold in his eight-year career. As Los Angeles’s primary bench scorer, he is expected to maintain this trend with continued playing time.
Jake LaRavia is projected to shoot 38% from three-point range after a disappointing shooting performance last season, which is seen as an outlier compared to his prior effectiveness as a sharpshooter.
Jarred Vanderbilt is expected to start at least 40 games this season. Renowned for his defensive capabilities, he has shown he can impact games even if not always reflected in the statistics.
Ziaire Williams is forecasted to shoot 40% from three. With upgraded playmaking support, he has the potential to develop into a reliable catch-and-shoot option for the Lakers.
Matisse Thybulle has a chance to achieve four games with at least 4 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 stocks, an occurrence he has seen only nine times throughout his career.
Kevon Looney may record a game with 15 rebounds, provided opportunities arise due to potential absences among the Lakers’ other centers.
Jaden Hardy is expected to score at least 20 points in a game. With enhanced depth on the roster, he is positioned well to showcase his scoring abilities.
Bronny James could achieve multiple games with six assists and three steals, following an impressive season as a ball handler last year.
Adou Thiero aims to finish among the top 40 in the league for made dunks, showcasing his athleticism and scoring potential from his rookie season and summer league performance.
Cameron Carr may hit five three-pointers in a game, demonstrating the shooting ability he displayed in college and during the summer.
Lastly, Dalton Knecht is predicted to score 30 points in a game, a bold expectation given the unpredictability of his contributions.
These statistical projections highlight the potential for a new chapter in Lakers' basketball as they prepare for the upcoming season.