One of the big questions regarding the Los Angeles Lakers this season is who will be in their starting lineup.
Other than LeBron James and Anthony Davis, three spots have seemingly been open, and head coach Darvin Ham seemed noncommittal when asked who would fill those spots.
But several days into training camp, there seems to be an answer, at least for now.
Ham said he has been starting Russell Westbrook, as well as guard Kendrick Nunn and center Damian Jones most often during practices, and that it has been his preferred starting lineup thus far.
However, it appears that starting lineup is fluid.
Darvin Ham said the most used starting lineup in practices has been Damian Jones, Anthony Davis, LeBron James, Kendrick Nunn and Russell Westbrook. But he clarifies he hasn’t decided on a five-man group yet.
— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) September 30, 2022
Jones was signed as a free agent earlier this summer, and while he isn’t an overpowering player, he is a relatively energetic 27-year-old who can block shots, rebound, run the floor and score every now and then.
Nunn didn’t play last season because of a bone bruise in his knee, but he is a proven scorer who is efficient from all over the court.
During the 2020-21 season, he averaged 14.6 points a game while shooting 48.5% overall and 38.1% from 3-point range.
Nunn has reportedly looked good in camp
Many Lakers fans have been concerned Nunn still wouldn’t be healthy enough to fully take part in training camp and play in games either this preseason or once the regular season starts.
However, not only has he been a full participant in camp, but he has looked wonderful.
Via Lakers Daily:
“Fellow guard Austin Reaves noted Nunn’s performance during a Friday practice which showed that Nunn’s shooting touch is in midseason form.
“‘Kendrick today was killing,’ said guard Austin Reaves on Friday. ‘I don’t think he missed a shot all day.’
“Lakers head coach Darvin Ham also added to the praise over Nunn’s early efforts, citing the guard’s coachability when it comes to making adjustments.
“‘It’s almost like he’s a new player, he’s a free agent for us,’ Ham said. ‘So, I told him he’s going to be a big part of what I’m trying to do and he’s embraced it and you can tell by his play thus far.'”
With James 37 years old and possessing miles of wear and tear, Nunn’s ability to score off the bounce, handle the ball in the open court and hit open 3-pointers in catch-and-shoot situations can help the four-time MVP stay fresh.
