Lakers News: Insider Sees Plenty Of Promise In LA's Sub-.500 Preseason So Far
Your Los Angeles Lakers currently hold a 2-3 record for the 2023 preseason, but that isn't really indicative of the implications within each matchup according to Mike Trudell of Lakers.com.
LA wraps up its preseason against the Phoenix Suns this Thursday but they'll have plenty to be proud of already no matter how this final exhibition match ends.
Because of some playing time limitations, coach Darvin Ham hasn't had the luxury of using his most-likely combinations of players very often. And yet, several different groups have looked terrific together, before the bulk of second half preseason action has been ceded to younger players unlikely to feature in the regular season. Of the 12 players with a viable argument to be in the regular rotation, six have played all five games: D'Angelo Russell, Rui Hachimura, Taurean Prince, Rui Hachimura, Max Christie and Christian Wood. Anthony Davis has played four, Gabe Vincent three, LeBron James, Austin Reaves and Cam Reddish two apiece, and Jarred Vanderbilt one.
Vanderbilt's recent heel injury remains a concern with the regular season fast approaching as many expected the forward to be a starter on opening night.
Such a possibility is becoming less and less likely by the day although one of his potential replacements has made a strong case to be part of Darvin Ham's starting five next Tuesday.
After a rough preseason opener at Golden State – Prince fouled out in 13 minutes and hit just 1 of 5 FG's – the former Timberwolves wing has shot the ball very well, and stoutly defended his position. Prince has drilled 11 of 20 triples since the opener, reaching double figures in three straight games, and picked up a pair of steals against both the Kings and Warriors.
Second-year shooting guard Max Christie and big man Christian Wood's emergence as part of LA's rotation have also been highlighted during the preseason as the Lakers look ready to go for another crack at banner #18.
Time will tell if they can get the job done but their preseason slate has proven plenty already.
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