Los Angeles Lakers Starting 5: Locks, fringe, and break-ins for 2021-22

2021-22 Los Angeles Lakers Starting Lineup: Who are the break-in candidates?

Trevor Ariza

The likelihood of Trevor Ariza starting for the Lakers next season is a long-shot, but not impossible following some recent comments from Anthony Davis. Los Angeles Times’ writer Brad Turner recently reported that Davis told Westbrook he was willing to play more center when the team needed it. Davis at center has always been a hot topic of discussion, but if he is genuinely okay with playing the position at times, LA would need a starter to fill in with small-ball. Ariza would be the perfect fit due to his 3-and-D prowess, making a career off shooting the long ball and playing some fantastic defense. At 36-years-old, Ariza could claim a spot in the starting lineup due to his experience and stature as a start in this league, backed by a championship ring with LA in 2009. Some will argue that Carmelo Anthony should be listed in Ariza’s place, but he seems better suited to stick in a bench role full time.

Malik Monk

Circling back to the shooting guard predicament, Malik Monk is a name that could sneak his way into the conversation. The guard is coming off a career year with the Charlotte Hornets where he averaged 11.7 points per game off the bench, but what stood out the most was his shooting from deep. Monk shot 40.1 percent from three on five attempts per game last season, meaning he will give the Los Angeles Lakers another solid knockdown shooter, on paper. He will be competing with Tucker and Ellington for that starting spot, and it should not be a surprise if he ultimately wins the job.

Dwight Howard

While the aforementioned Gasol seems like the day one starter for the Lakers at the center position next year, Dwight Howard could make his way into that spot fairly quickly. The Lakers signed the big man in free agency this past offseason, bringing him back to LA for the third time. He most recently helped them win the championship in 2020 by playing a key role on that team. Given his familiarity with the players and coaches, along with his play on the court, Howard could have a case to start. His lack of spacing would undoubtedly be an issue, but if Gasol does not produce at a serviceable level, promoting a reliable frontcourt piece like Howard into the starting five might be legitimately worth considering for Frank Vogel.