Los Angeles Lakers lineup preview, Pt. 3: How small is too small?

Defensive outlook

Unlike most Lakers’ lineups, this one equips three capable wing defenders that can interchange on the perimeter. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope went toe-to-toe with the opposing team’s top guard on a nightly basis with the Detroit Pistons, and would assume the same role in the purple and gold.  Josh Hart was a standout defender in college and would be a strong secondary defender to KCP in this group.

The defensive capabilities of these guards allows Lonzo to shift to play off-ball defensively. It’s not to say he can’t hold his own on staying with guards on the perimeter; it’s just better to have him not isolated as much as possible. Lonzo is at his best when reading opposing players away from the ball and jumping passing lanes. Having a shot-blocker behind him would make me more comfortable when he’s on ball.

This is where Brandon Ingram and Kyle Kuzma come into play. Ingram made a strong impression early last season with his defensive play. He gives great effort on this end of the floor and has the length to develop into a scary defender capable of protecting the rim and staying with wings on the perimeter. I really think he can anchor a defense if he puts on some weight and shows a motor on the boards.

The same could be said for Kuzma. He isn’t as long as Ingram, but is more built and has the quickness to hang with some wing players. His effort wavered on defense and he lost track of defenders at Utah. Both Kuzma and Ingram have the physical tools to protect the rim. If either of them can develop these skills, this lineup becomes a strong defensive unit to go along with their offensive potential.