[Saba Sports News] According to Jovan Buha’s report in The Athletic, there is a potential surprise in store for the Los Angeles Lakers this season. The new Lakers forward, Taurean Prince, is emerging as a candidate for the fifth starting position. Prince has been actively participating with the Lakers’ starters during training camp scrimmages, competing with Rui Hachimura and Jarred Vanderbilt for the role.
Despite just joining the Lakers this offseason, Prince’s impressive three-point shooting abilities (38.4 percent over the past three seasons) and high defensive activity make him a viable option. This could allow the Lakers to employ a five-out offensive strategy while maintaining a strong defensive presence, alongside the confirmed starters LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Austin Reaves, and D’Angelo Russell.
However, at 6-foot-7, Prince is the shortest among the three potential fifth starters, which raises questions about his suitability in the starting lineup, considering how the Lakers aim to manage Anthony Davis’ role.
Nonetheless, Prince is making a noticeable impact in training camp, hinting that he might secure a place in the starting five with his valuable 3-and-D skill set.