Predicting LA Lakers' death lineup for 2020-21 NBA Season

#3- Dennis Schroder, Shooting guard

Oklahoma City Thunder v Houston Rockets - Game Seven

Dennis Schroeder was recently acquired by the LA Lakers from OKC Thunder and will be replacing Rajon Rondo next season. However, Rondo was not a part of the LA Lakers' death lineup last season, while Schroeder is certain to take up the 2 guard position for the reigning champions.

Schroeder was pivotal to OKC Thunder's success last season, as the team made the postseason and even took the Houston Rockets in the first round. The former Atlanta Hawks guard was a part of the 3 guard closing lineup OKC Thunder opted for and ranked as the 6th most clutch player in the NBA last season.

#4- Kentavious Caldwell Pope, Small Forward

2020 NBA Finals - Game Six

Kentavious Caldwell Pope was a free agent this offseason but managed to secure a $40 million 3-year deal, re-signing with the Lakers. Although not the most prolific scorer on the Lakers, KCP was the side's 3rd best player in the bubble behind James and Davis and improved his defensive rating last season.

The reason behind him landing the massive contract is his performance in the playoffs, especially in the closing moments. KCP's used closing minutes to display his efficient 3 point shooting and strong perimeter defense. Pope posted a positive plus-minus in the clutch as per NBA's data and is set to be a part of the LA Lakers' death lineup next season.

#5- Marc Gasol/Montrezl Harrell, Center

Toronto Raptors v Boston Celtics - Game Three

There is uncertainty around who the LA Lakers will play at the center position in the closing minutes, with both Gasol and Harrell staking a claim for the spot. Both were acquired recently, and head coach Frank Vogel will have to pick one to play at the 5 as a part of the death lineup.

If last postseason is to be taken into account, Marc Gasol seems to be a better alternative than Harrell for the center position. Harrell was poor for the LA Clippers as a closer, to the point where Doc Rivers had to sub him out for young center Ivica Zubac.

On the other hand, Marc Gasol has proved that he can be a reliable option in the clutch, as the former Memphis Grizzlies star displayed in the Toronto Raptors title win in 2019.