FanPost

Lineup Changes

It looks clearer and clearer that, despite what is seemingly best for them, the Lakers are not going to make any moves (Aside from a potential signing of Kenyon Martin in the near future). With that in mind, I think they need to change up their lineups to maximize efficiency and keep from getting blown out when the starters exit the game. Once Dwight and Pau eventually make their way back from injury, the lineup is going to need a shake-up.



Here is my proposal:


Starters:
PG - Nash
SG - Kobe
SF - Ebanks
PF - Jamison
C - Dwight

2nd Unit:
PG - Duhon
SG - Meeks
SF - Metta
PF - Clark
C - Gasol


Rationale:

Replacing Metta in the starting lineup with Ebanks moves a scorer to the bench without losing much in the way of defense or effort in Ebanks. The big move, Pau to the bench, makes more sense for him at this stage of his career. He can still be a very effective player, but only when paying down low in the post. If he comes off the bench to anchor the second unit, I think we would see a much bigger contribution coming from him. Antawn Jamison is much better suited to play the stretch 4 position than Pau, and you still have a guy who can score while clearing up the post for Dwight to do his thing. In the second unit, Pau and Metta run the offense, but energy guys like Earl Clark and Jodie Meeks will still be able to do their thing. Switching to this lineup would enable the Lakers to balance the scoring throughout their lineup, maximize the output of Gasol, and help to shore up their defensive match-ups, potentially giving them a chance to make a run at the 8 seed in the west.

Thoughts? Any respectful comments or concerns are appreciated.