Lakers News: Darvin Ham Confirms Who Will Be LA’s Starting Point Guard in 2023

All eyes will be on him.

Lakers head coach Darvin Ham had plenty of decisions to make for his talented roster with old faces from last postseason and new faces eager for their chance at a title. 

One of these tough choices came down to who would be his starting point guard and the answer came to light earlier this week. 

Darvin Ham on D'Angelo Russell: "He's our starting point guard."

— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) September 28, 2023

Russell emerged as a key cog in the Lakers' playoff pursuit after being traded for by GM Rob Pelinka during the trade deadline. 

The team opted to trust the former no. 2 overall pick in his second run with the team after a successful stint with the Timberwolves. 

After the team ditched Russell Westbrook for another, the recently extended Jared Vanderbilt and Malik Beasley, LA's postseason picture became much more clear. 

LA saved their season thanks to Russell's regular season performance in Westbrook's stead and now give the former Buckeye another chance to run their backcourt

Playoff inconsistencies placed Russell on the bench in the later stages of the postseason, but his track record remained enough for a two-year contract and an offseason return to the team. 

Though many speculated that former Miami Heat guard Gabe Vincent could have taken over the role, Russell gets another crack to inspire confidence in the organization. 

A streaky shooter and gifted passer, it'll be on the Ohio State product's shoulders to shore up the backcourt with Austin Reaves behind the Lakers' superstar duo. 

Plenty of fans remain hesitant about Russell's play due to his poor showcase in the Western Conference Finals against Denver even if Ham supports the veteran. 

Though he's earned the starting role, Russell's contract is easily tradeable for Pelinka if it becomes clear he's not the man for the job later in the year. 

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