Predicting the LA Lakers’ top 5 scorers for the 2021-22 NBA season

#3 Russell Westbrook

Russell Westbrook at the LA Lakers Media Day

Russell Westbrook was the most noteworthy signing by the LA Lakers in the 2021 NBA offseason. Westbrook's addition to the roster was met by mixed opinions overall. However, the acquisition of the league leader in all-time triple doubles as well as one of the most explosive guards to ever play the game made the Lakers title favorites in an instant.

Westbrook is at his best when the offense is run by him. His last season with the Washington Wizards saw him record averages of 22.5 points, 11.5 rebounds and 11.7 assists per game. While his preseason debut with the LA Lakers was definitely underwhelming, Westbrook should be able to deliver once he manages to find his feet with the team.

While the 32-year-old did record great numbers last season, his role in the LA Lakers will see him distribute the ball a lot more than score. With this in mind, there is greater potential for his scoring numbers to drop. Westbrook could potentially average just over 19 points a game this season.

However, his assist numbers may also see an increase considering he has lob threats such as DeAndre Jordan and Dwight Howard running with him.

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#2 Anthony Davis

Anthony Davis looks to drive to the rim against Deandre Ayton

If anyone in the LA Lakers is entering this NBA season with a point to prove, it is Anthony Davis. The Lakers superstar performed at his best in the Orlando bubble but has since been plagued by injuries, leading to glaring inconsistencies in form.

Looking to bounce back in the 2021-22 NBA season, Davis has made significant physical changes to increase his longevity to ensure the Lakers' title run.

When healthy, the 28-year-old is one of the most gifted big men in the game. With a multifaceted skillset, Davis is a scoring threat from all three levels while also being a solid defender and rim protector.

With Westbrook feeding him the ball in the low post and finding him on lobs, there is a great chance Davis could be one of the best scorers on the LA Lakers' side once the chemistry falls into place.

Davis recorded 21.8 points per game last season due to injuries. During his peak with the Lakers, he recorded a much higher 26.1 points per game. The LA Lakers will hope he can return to the form he displayed during their 2020 championship run. If he does, Davis could potentially average over 25 points per game in the 2021-22 NBA season.

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#1 LeBron James

LeBron James gets his shots up ahead of an LA Lakers game

LeBron James is one of the greatest players of all time and there is a very valid argument for that debate. Entering his 19th season in the NBA, James has had one of the most illustrious careers and is still considered a top three player in the league.

As the 2021 NBA season unfolds, LeBron is expected to shift his style of play from being a playmaker to being a scorer. Moving to an off-the-ball approach creates some adjustment issues, but playing like that may not be such a bad idea for the veteran.

LeBron James has never averaged less than 25 points a game throughout his career, other than his rookie season. With the playmaking load taken off of him, we can expect a jump in the 36-year-old's scoring numbers from last season.

Last season, James recorded 25 points per game but only played 45 games. In the 2021-22 season, we could see him average over 26 points per game if he is healthy and the pairing with Russell Westbrook works for the LA Lakers.