The Los Angeles Lakers, under new head coach JJ Redick, have officially unveiled their 9-man rotation as they prepare for the upcoming season. With a mix of established stars, key role players, and some new faces, Redick’s lineup reflects a focus on versatility, shooting, and defense. Among the notable inclusions is Dalton Knecht, whose strong preseason has earned him a spot in the rotation. Let’s break down the Lakers’ new rotation and how each player fits into Redick’s system.

1. LeBron James (SF/PF)

At the heart of the Lakers’ rotation, LeBron James continues to lead the team in his 21st season. Despite his age, LeBron remains one of the most dominant forces in the league. Under Redick’s system, he will continue to handle playmaking duties while also increasing his off-ball movement to take advantage of the team’s improved spacing.

LeBron’s Role:

• Primary Playmaker: LeBron will continue to initiate the offense and create opportunities for others.
• Focus on Spacing: With more shooters around him, expect LeBron to exploit mismatches and attack the basket more efficiently.

2. Anthony Davis (PF/C)

Anthony Davis is set to play a key role in Redick’s new system, primarily at power forward but also sliding to center when needed. Davis will anchor the defense, and his ability to switch onto multiple positions will be crucial in the Lakers’ switch-heavy scheme. He’ll also be a focal point in the offense, particularly in pick-and-roll situations.

AD’s Role:

• Defensive Anchor: AD will continue to dominate defensively, both as a rim protector and a switchable defender on the perimeter.
• Versatile Offense: He’ll be heavily involved in pick-and-rolls, post-ups, and as a mid-range scorer.

3. Austin Reaves (SG)

Austin Reaves is coming off a breakout season and is now a key member of the Lakers’ core. As a combo guard, Reaves will handle playmaking responsibilities and act as a secondary ball-handler next to LeBron. His ability to knock down threes, draw fouls, and defend multiple positions makes him a perfect fit for Redick’s vision of a versatile, switch-heavy team.

Reaves’ Role:

• Secondary Playmaker: Reaves will facilitate the offense when LeBron sits, providing another ball-handler and shot creator.
• 3-and-D Presence: He’ll be counted on to hit open threes and defend opposing guards and wings.

4. D’Angelo Russell (PG)

D’Angelo Russell returns as the starting point guard, bringing his elite playmaking and shooting ability to Redick’s system. While his defense has been a concern in the past, Russell’s role in the rotation will focus on running the offense and providing scoring, particularly in pick-and-roll situations with AD.

Russell’s Role:

• Offensive Engine: Russell will orchestrate the offense when LeBron isn’t on the court and is expected to take on a high-volume scoring role.
• Pick-and-Roll Focus: His chemistry with AD in the pick-and-roll will be a key part of the Lakers’ offensive game plan.

5. Gabe Vincent (PG/SG)

Gabe Vincent, a key offseason acquisition, is expected to play a significant role off the bench. His tenacity on defense and ability to knock down threes make him a great fit for Redick’s rotation. Vincent will often play alongside Reaves or Russell, providing stability as a combo guard.

Vincent’s Role:

• Perimeter Defense: Vincent will be one of the Lakers’ primary defensive stoppers, guarding the opponent’s best perimeter players.
• Spot-Up Shooting: He’ll be expected to hit open shots in catch-and-shoot situations, benefiting from the playmaking of LeBron and Russell.

6. Rui Hachimura (SF/PF)

Rui Hachimura will serve as one of the primary scoring options off the bench, providing a physical presence and versatility on both ends of the floor. Hachimura’s ability to create his own shot, attack the rim, and defend multiple positions makes him a vital piece in Redick’s rotation.

Hachimura’s Role:

• Offensive Spark: Rui will provide scoring punch, particularly in isolation and mid-range situations.
• Defensive Versatility: Hachimura’s size allows him to defend wings and power forwards, fitting well in the Lakers’ switch-heavy defense.

7. Christian Wood (PF/C)

Christian Wood is another new addition to the Lakers’ frontcourt. Wood’s ability to stretch the floor and play as a secondary big alongside Anthony Davis gives Redick more flexibility. His three-point shooting and ability to score in the paint will make him a valuable piece in the Lakers’ offense.

Wood’s Role:

• Floor Spacer: Wood will help space the floor with his three-point shooting, especially in lineups where AD plays at the 4.
• Stretch 5: He’ll see minutes as a center, particularly in lineups where the Lakers want to play faster and space the floor more effectively.

8. Jaxson Hayes (C)

Jaxson Hayes will be the primary backup center behind AD, providing athleticism, rim protection, and energy. Hayes’ ability to defend the rim and run the floor in transition will be crucial when the Lakers look to push the pace.

Hayes’ Role:

• Rim Protection: Hayes will be the defensive anchor off the bench, providing shot-blocking and rebounding.
• Lob Threat: On offense, Hayes will serve as a pick-and-roll finisher, using his athleticism to catch lobs and finish around the rim.

9. Dalton Knecht (SG/SF)

One of the biggest surprises of preseason, Dalton Knecht has worked his way into the rotation with his impressive performances. Knecht, a 6’7” swingman, brings size, shooting, and versatility to the Lakers’ bench. Redick’s emphasis on spacing and shooting has opened the door for Knecht to play meaningful minutes as a 3-and-D wing.

Knecht’s Role:

• 3-and-D Wing: Knecht will be counted on to hit open shots and provide solid defense on the perimeter, making him a valuable floor-spacer in the Lakers’ second unit.
• Versatile Defender: His size allows him to guard multiple positions, giving Redick more flexibility in his rotations.

Final Thoughts: Redick’s Vision Taking Shape

JJ Redick’s 9-man rotation reflects a balance between star power and role players who can execute his system of spacing, three-point shooting, and defensive versatility. With a mix of veteran leadership, young talent, and key offseason additions, the Lakers are positioning themselves as a team that can compete on both ends of the floor. Dalton Knecht’s inclusion in the rotation highlights Redick’s commitment to developing emerging players who can contribute in key areas.

As the Lakers head into the regular season, this new-look rotation is set to provide excitement and depth, giving the team a strong foundation to build on as they chase another championship.