LA Lakers vs Dallas Mavericks Prediction: Combined Starting 5 featuring LeBron James and Luka Doncic

Small Forward - Luka Doncic (Dallas Mavericks)

Luka Doncic

In just his third NBA season, Luka Doncic is already one of the best in the league and has adapted to the league quickly.

The 21-year-old is a gifted passer who makes plays for his teammates out of thin air. He isn't the best shooter from behind the arc but has taken all the clutch shots for his team and made a few of them. He also hit the memorable game-winning buzzer-beater against the LA Clippers in the 2020 NBA Playoffs.

Power Forward - Anthony Davis (LA Lakers)

Anthony Davis

Anthony Davis is one of the best players in the NBA and is arguably the best power forward in the league.

The 27-year-old is an incredible presence inside the paint with rebounding and scoring in the post. His outside shot has also improved with every season and Davis can now stretch the floor as well.

.@KendrickPerkins' prediction for the NBA season:🔸 Anthony Davis will win MVP🔸 Lakers will repeat as champions pic.twitter.com/DoD0s8jIrI

— First Take (@FirstTake) December 22, 2020

The Dallas Mavericks don't have a healthy player who can compete with Anthony Davis at the 4. The LA Lakers superstar claims his place as the small forward in this lineup.

Center - Marc Gasol (LA Lakers)

Los Angeles Clippers v Los Angeles Lakers

Operating at center in this combined starting five of the LA Lakers and Dallas Mavericks is 35-year-old Marc Gasol.

The Spaniard has never been among the quickest of players, but his positional awareness and intelligence make him a valuable asset. Additionally, he is also a capable shooter from behind the arc, which allows him to stretch the floor for his team.

While Dwight Powell is an excellent center in his own right, Marc Gasol's defensive awareness and passing see him come out on top in this matchup.

---