Pre-Training Camp Player Power Rankings for LA Lakers

With an influx of new talent, the Los Angeles Lakers have a roster that has the potential to contain a bevvy of breakout contributors. 

Full of young prospects and returning veterans, Mike D'Antoni should be able to establish a rotation that should at least be competitive in a very talented Western Conference. 

While last year's dramatic events dominated the Lakers' season, this season should be much more straight forward.

In exchange for two of their best defensive players and several other key contributors, the Lakers have received a myriad of athletes and shooters that should make them more fluid on offense and much more vulnerable on defense. 

Molding a roster that is more conducive to running a D'Antoni-style offense should make these Lakers more entertaining while they try and tread water until the major rebuilding phase that is expected to occur next offseason. 

The key to their success this season will depend on their ability to clearly define roles and expectations for their players.

It is clear that veterans like Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol will be expected to carry the load. Defining and adjusting the offensive and defensive responsibilities of each Laker player will make it possible for the Lakers and their fans to have realistic expectations this season. 

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