Key Highlights
- Jake LaRavia has improved his offensive game and is now providing more consistent scoring for the Los Angeles Lakers’ bench.
- The Lakers have been struggling with reliable scoring from their second unit this season.
- Lakers’ second-unit players like Marcus Smart and Jarred Vanderbilt are excelling on defense, but need a more stable scorer to balance the team’s offensive contributions.
- LaRavia is seen as the best option among current bench players for generating offense due to his playmaking ability and three-point shooting.
Improving Offense from the Bench
Jake LaRavia, signed by the Los Angeles Lakers with high expectations, has finally started contributing more effectively on the offensive end. This development is crucial as the team aims to build upon their successful 50-win campaign in the previous season and ensure a balanced attack during the ongoing 2025-26 NBA regular season.
According to Maxwell Ogden, LaRavia’s increased volume of shots—while not yet efficient—is a positive sign. In his third appearance with the Lakers, he attempted ten field goals in thirty-three minutes, providing a welcome boost to the team’s offensive efforts. While shooting just 3-of-10 from the field, his improved volume is seen as a significant step towards meeting the expectations set for him by the organization.
Addressing Past Flaws
The Los Angeles Lakers have faced challenges in their second unit’s offensive production during the recent season. The team ranked No. 29 in the NBA in points per game via reserves, which has overburdened their starting five to an unsustainable degree. Addressing this flaw is essential for sustained success and maintaining a healthy workload distribution among players.
LaRavia’s role as a source of reliable scoring from the bench could be pivotal.
He brings not only scoring but also playmaking abilities, averaging 4.2 assists per 36 minutes in the previous season. This makes him an attractive option for the Lakers to utilize effectively, providing both individual contributions and team-oriented plays.
Comparing Bench Options
Among current second-unit players, LaRavia stands out with his potential to contribute both on offense and defense. While Dalton Knecht is a more proficient three-point shooter, he has seen limited playing time early in the season. This situation suggests that LaRavia may be given more opportunities to generate offense for the Lakers.
The team’s success depends heavily on their ability to balance offensive contributions from both starters and bench players. As LaRavia continues to develop his confidence and efficiency, he could play a crucial role in ensuring the Lakers maintain a strong overall performance throughout the season.
