Projecting the Los Angeles Lakers' Starting Lineup After They Missed Out on Kawhi Leonard

The Los Angeles Clippers made themselves instant contenders with the signing of Kawhi Leonard and the acquisition of Paul George. While they are pumped by this latest development, the Los Angeles Lakers are left at the altar and have to change course.

The Lakers have been busy this morning, as they've quickly added role players to their core of LeBron James and Anthony Davis. So, now that Kawhi is a Clipper, what will the Lakers' starting five look like?

Here's a projection of their starting lineup, which could change if they can pull off another big move.

1. PG: Rajon Rondo

Los Angeles Lakers v Boston Celtics / Maddie Meyer/Getty Images

One of the complementary players the Lakers brought aboard is point guard Quinn Cook, who has spent time with the Golden State Warriors in recent years and has experience on championship-caliber teams. But right after signing him, they added Rajon Rondo on a two-year deal, and last year's Lakers' starter will likely return to his role.

2. SG: Danny Green

2019 NBA Finals - Game Five / Gregory Shamus/Getty Images

The Lakers lacked shooting last season, which is key for a LeBron James team. Obviously, they would've loved to add Kawhi Leonard, but they'll have to settle for his Raptors teammate Danny Green, who is still a lethal 3-point shooter.

3. SF: LeBron James

Los Angeles Clippers v Los Angeles Lakers / Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images

LeBron James may have wanted to give Kawhi the keys to the car and have him carry the bulk of the load, but that's definitely not happening now, and LBJ will need to be the best player in the world, again.

4. PF: Anthony Davis

New Orleans Pelicans v Indiana Pacers / Andy Lyons/Getty Images

It's a good thing the Lakers brought aboard Anthony Davis, giving LeBron at least one star he can pair with. AD was hiding down in New Orleans for years, but those paying attention know Davis is a top-five player in the world and he should thrive alongside LBJ.

5. C: DeMarcus Cousins

2019 NBA Finals - Game Six / Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images

The newly re-signed center JaVale McGee likely didn't see this coming. The Lakers also added him on a two-year deal in their slew of moves after missing out on Leonard, but then delivered the final blow in signing DeMarcus Cousins to a one-year deal. He'll have a full offseason to get back on track after his multiple rough injuries and figures to be in the starting five with LeBron and former teammate AD.