The Los Angeles Lakers, led by LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Austin Reaves, and D’Angelo Russell, have locked up four of their five starting positions. Though it’s still up for grabs, Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, or the recently signed Taurean Prince are the most likely candidates for the fifth position.
When Prince signed a one-year contract with the Lakers during free agency, he was not considered a starter. It was thought to be a two-man race between Hachimura and Vanderbilt, but Prince has solidified his place in the mix with his performance in training camp and the preseason. Everyone, even one of the team’s superstars in Davis, has observed his efforts.
Regarding Prince and all that he has contributed to the Lakers thus far, Davis was all praise. Additionally, he discussed the competition for the fifth starter and how Prince fits into that discussion, according to Khobi Price of the Southern California News Group:
“He works as a veterinarian. A true expert. He’s putting in work and shooting the basketball really well in practice and games. a protector. He is excellent. Though I’m not sure who will start, he seems to be making a strong case for himself.
Throughout his seven NBA seasons, Prince has shot above 38% from beyond the arc, with a career percentage of 37.2%. As Davis notes, he is also establishing himself as a strong defender so far. Any combination that has James and a real 3-and-D wing will be more successful.
There are distinct advantages and disadvantages for each of the three players vying for the fifth starting spot. Prince is a 3-and-D wing prototype, although he hasn’t been very consistent. Although Vanderbilt is by far the team’s top defender, he hasn’t shown that he can contribute favorably to the offensive end of the court.
While Hachimura is the top creator and scorer overall, he has had trouble making decisions on both ends of the court and might not be the ideal choice for perimeter defense. It’s going to be a difficult battle, and the outcome probably won’t be known until very near to the Lakers season opener on October 24.
D’Angelo Russell claims that Prince is a perfect fit
Russell, the starting guard, is another athlete who has praised Prince thus far. He calls Prince a fearless competitor with strengths on both sides of the court and feels that he has already “fit right in” with the Lakers. With all of this positive feedback, Prince might be the clear favorite to start on Opening Night.