Lakers projected starting lineup and depth chart after key free agent signing

LeBron James
LeBron James | Ronald Martinez/GettyImages

The Los Angeles Lakers were uncharacteristically quiet at the trade deadline, which raised eyebrows considering they are currently ninth in the Western Conference. Nevertheless, the Lakers appear to be one of the winners of the trade deadline and we are beginning to see why. One of the reasons Los Angeles likely opted to stand pat was that they knew that they would be a destination for buyout candidates.

In fact, they are planning to sign former Brooklyn Nets starting point guard Spencer Dinwiddie, providing them with a rotation player without giving up an asset. The addition of Dinwiddie gives Los Angeles another ball handler and playmaker, something they were looking for on the trade market, and his signing may shake up the Lakers rotation. Let's take a look at their up-to-the-minute depth chart.

Lakers projected starting lineup and depth chart after Dinwiddie signing.

Point guards: D'Angelo Russell, Spencer Dinwiddie, and Jalen Hood-Schifino
Shooting guards: Austin Reaves, Gabe Vincent, Max Christie, and Skylar Mays
Small forwards: LeBron James, Cam Reddish, Dylan Windler, and Maxwell Lewis
Power Forwards: Rui Hachimura, Jared Vanderbilt, and Taurean Prince
Centers: Anthony Davis, Jaxon Hayes, Cristian Wood, and Collin Castleton

Despite the Lakers struggles this season, they have built a surprisingly versatile roster that has plenty of size and enough shooting to compete on both the offensive and defensive ends. However, they have struggled to stay healthy and are likely banking on players such as Gabe Vincent returning to full strength.

Currently, the Lakers are 30th in three-point attempts and 15th in three-point percentage and Vincent could help in both aspects, helping boost their 20th-ranked offense. Dinwiddie will also help, slotting in as a backup point guard as they await the return of Vincent. Additionally, at 6'4, he fits with the Lakers roster, which features both positional size and length, making it tougher for teams to get clean looks.

Overall, Los Angeles snagging a rotation after the trade deadline should help them as they make their postseason push. With the buyout deadline on March 1st, it's possible that they could add another key player. Stay tuned!