Los Angeles Lakers: Early predictions for the 2018-19 starting lineup

Center: Julius Randle

There it is — the re-signing of Julius Randle. It’s an approach I’ve been an advocate of, so I’m sticking with it here.

In this scenario, I wouldn’t be surprised if the Lakers also managed to re-sign Brook Lopez. He’s already stated that he’d return if the team looks like a contender (via Lakers Nation), which it absolutely will after inking PG-13 and bringing back Randle. For the purposes of this piece, though, I’m penciling the youngster into the starting lineup.

The Lakers’ small-ball attack with Randle at center was an exciting one last season. Although it isn’t going to work against every team and there are only small sample sizes to reference, we’ve seen it succeed in spurts.

His tenacity, toughness and determination in the paint overwhelmed opposing big men, and allowed the former No. 7 overall pick to feast as a scorer and rebounder.

At the same time, there are other variations that could be implemented depending on matchups. Lopez can still serve as the more traditional 5, and he also offers more range than Randle. Ivica Zubac and Thomas Bryant are options as well, while the Lakers could also target a bigger center with the No. 25 overall pick.

Next: Grading the Lakers' 2017 draft class after Year 1

Either way, it gives Walton pieces to play with as he looks to solve the postseason puzzle.