Lakers ‘Iron Man’ will land surprising starting 5 nod amid roster overhaul
The Lakers' 2026-27 depth chart will look a lot different than last year's.
The Los Angeles Lakers have dramatically revamped their roster for the upcoming 2026-27 season, with nine new players joining the team. Head coach JJ Redick faces the challenge of designing a new lineup rotation amidst this significant roster overhaul. While certain players are almost certain to start, there is still some uncertainty regarding the final spots.
The Los Angeles Times reports that starting first and second are unquestionable stars Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic. Also locked in as starters are Walker Kessler and second-year forward Adou Thiero. Veteran players Collin Sexton, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Ziaire Williams, and Matisse Thybulle have secured their spots on the roster, with Mamukelashvili being the first or second choice for power forward or small-ball center positions.
The team has used both nine- and 10-man rotations under Redick, and the 10th man position is currently up for grabs. Contenders for that spot include Cameron Carr, Adou Thiero, Kevon Looney, and Jarred Vanderbilt, each bringing different strengths and weaknesses to the table.
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