The Los Angeles Lakers are facing a minor question as they prepare for the upcoming regular season – who will be their fifth starter once the season tips off on October 24th against the Denver Nuggets? While LeBron James and Anthony Davis are obviously the first two choices for the frontcourt positions, and D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves are set to be the starting backcourt, there is one frontcourt spot that remains open.
Currently, there are two candidates vying for that final starting position. Jarred Vanderbilt, who started most of last season after being acquired in a February trade, and Rui Hachimura, who had a successful stint as an instant offense man coming off the bench. Both players have shown promise and have made their case for the role.
However, as training camp progresses, there seems to be a new contender for the position. According to reports from The Athletic, there is now a “serious” candidate for the final starting spot – Taurean Prince. This development adds another layer of competition and intrigue to the Lakers’ decision-making process.
The fifth starter spot is considered the biggest question mark of the Lakers’ training camp. With three candidates now in contention, it will be interesting to see who eventually emerges as the frontrunner. Hachimura, Vanderbilt, and Prince each bring their own unique set of skills to the table, making the decision a challenging one for Lakers’ head coach Frank Vogel.
Hachimura, a former lottery pick, has shown his ability to score in bursts and provide instant offense off the bench. His versatility and scoring prowess make him an attractive option for the Lakers. Vanderbilt, on the other hand, started most of last season and demonstrated his potential as a reliable rebounder and defender. His hustle and energy on the court have been commendable.
And now, Prince enters the conversation as a serious contender. Known for his three-point shooting and defensive prowess, Prince could provide the Lakers with an added dimension on both ends of the court. His experience in the league and his ability to stretch the floor make him a valuable asset.
The Lakers’ coaching staff will have their work cut out for them as they evaluate these three candidates and make a decision on who deserves the starting nod. Factors such as chemistry, fit within the system, and overall impact on the team’s performance will all come into play during this decision-making process.
Ultimately, the choice of the fifth starter will have a significant impact on the Lakers’ success this season. With James and Davis leading the way, having a strong supporting cast is crucial. The player chosen for the starting role will need to complement the team’s superstars and provide a necessary spark on both ends of the court.
As the regular season opener draws near, Lakers fans eagerly await the announcement of the final starting lineup. The competition for the fifth starter spot remains fierce, and the Lakers’ coaching staff will need to carefully assess their options before making a decision. Whether it’s Hachimura, Vanderbilt, or Prince, the chosen player will have the opportunity to contribute to a team with championship aspirations.
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