What happened: The newly acquired rim protector is slated to start, with Sandro Mamukelashvili serving as the primary offensive reserve and Kevon Looney providing defensive stability. Los Angeles may seek a younger prospect on a two-way contract to round out the depth chart.

Why it matters: Dedicated bench roles give the coaching staff tactical flexibility against varying matchups. Looney brings critical connective passing and rebounding, but his age and scoring limitations require strict minute monitoring throughout the 2026-27 schedule.

What to watch: Management will use the remaining offseason weeks to evaluate two-way candidates before training camp begins.