On the flip side, the Lakers' lack of production off the bench is why they've missed the Finals the past two seasons, as they were bounced out of the playoffs by the deeper Dallas Mavericks and Oklahoma City Thunder.
In preparation for the 2012-13 season, the Lakers certainly upgraded their roster by making a bold trade for Dwight Howard and signing veterans Steve Nash and Antawn Jamison.
However, while the bulk of the team's playing time will go to its starting five, it's the reserves who hold the key to once again putting the Lakers back in the NBA Finals.
Here's a breakdown of the roles that the new and returning Lakers bench players will fill in the coming season.
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Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
