A Los Angeles Lakers starter out again? Yes, starting point guard Dennis Schröder is out against the Toronto Raptors due to health and safety protocols, according to Jovan Buha of The Athletic. Schröder has been one of the most reliable and consistent players for the Lakers this season. His absence will be felt in Sunday's game even with LeBron James and Anthony Davis set to play.
The Lakers say Dennis Schröder (health and safety protocols) has been ruled out for tonight’s game vs. Toronto.
— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) May 2, 2021
These last games mean a lot for the Lakers and having key players out is concerning. The Lakers dropped some spots in the standings with their stars were out and are aiming to avoid the play-in tournament. While the defending champions would likely win the play-in tournament, it would be nice to have more rest.
Schröder may be the Lakers third-best player and without him, the role players will need to pick up the slack. You already know what you are getting from the nucleus of LeBron and AD but look for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Ben McLemore, and Kyle Kuzma to take more shots.
KCP shot almost 50% from three in the month of April and will continue to build on that heading into the playoffs. McLemore has been a great pick-up by general manager Rob Pelinka. He has averaged 10 points per game and shot 40% from three with the Lakers. Kuzma on the other hand struggled in the last game but was vital during LeBron and AD's absence.
Look for these guys to play well while the Lakers wait for Dennis Schröder's return.
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