The battle for the starting guard spot at the Lakers will be on as the team now has Gabe Vincent, as well as D’Angelo Russell on the roster.
Russell will be back in purple and gold this upcoming season after agreeing on a two-year, $37 million deal on day two of free agency.
LA signed Vincent on the first day of free agency on a three-year, $33 million contract, adding another ball handler who can space the court.
During last seasons playoffs, his 51 three’s were the third most ever by a Heat player in the postseason, according to ESPN Stats & Information research.
Naturally, one would assume that Russell would take the starting spot but this is all but guaranteed, Jovan Buha of The Athletic says.
“The projected lineups are fluid. Russell is the early favorite to start at point guard, but Vincent could earn the spot if he outplays him in training camp, team sources told The Athletic,” Buha said.
As well, restricted free agent and cult favorite Austin Reaves has agreed to a four-year, $56 million deal with a fourth year player option.
The team reportedly have big plans for the third year shooting guard.
“The Lakers plan on running more of their offense through Reaves next season, unlocking the point guard skills he’s flashed through his first two years in the league, according to team sources not authorized to speak publicly,” Buha said.
Reaves and Russell created a formidable on-court partnership last season, so it will be interesting to see if Reaves and Vincent can do the same.
Along with the three players already mentioned, the Lakers retained Rui Hachimura and agreed to terms with Jaxson Hayes, Taurean Prince and Cam Reddish, so the team have added plenty of depth.
“The Lakers also have plenty of positional flexibility, with Jarred Vanderbilt, Prince, Max Christie and Reddish each capable of playing at least two positions,Biha explained. “We may even see Hayes and Davis play together at times.”
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