Lakers’ Projected 10-Man Rotation with Minutes Breakdown
According to Jovan Buha, the Lakers’ projected 10-man rotation under new head coach JJ Redick features a mix of proven veterans and young contributors, with an emphasis on traditional lineup structures.
**Starters:**
* **Luka Dončić** – 36 mins
* **Austin Reaves** – 35 mins
* **Marcus Smart** – 25 mins
* **LeBron James** – 33 mins
* **Deandre Ayton** – 29 mins
Bench:
* **Gabe Vincent** – 15 mins
* **Jake LaRavia** – 16 mins
* **Rui Hachimura** – 29 mins (6th man)
* **Jarred Vanderbilt** – 12 mins
* **Jaxson Hayes** – 10 mins
This rotation assumes the Lakers opt for more traditional lineups with Jaxson Hayes or Deandre Ayton manning the backup 5 spot at all times. Rui plays a critical role off the bench as a high-minute sixth man, likely sharing frontcourt duties with Vanderbilt and LaRavia.
If Redick decides to go smaller or more modern with spacing, the backup center minutes could shift away from Hayes or Ayton. In such a scenario, rookie **Dalton Knecht (DK)** could slot into the 10th rotation spot, especially in lineups where LeBron or Rui slides to the 5.
However, Knecht faces tough competition. The current top nine in the rotation are established NBA contributors or fill positional needs. LaRavia, though younger than Knecht, brings three years of NBA experience and likely earns the edge early in the season.
Overall, barring injuries or major training camp surprises, Knecht may have to wait for an opening—whether through lineup experimentation, load management, or standout preseason play—to crack the rotation consistently.
