Who starts alongside Luka Dončić? The Lakers have two spots up for grabs

Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick confirmed that Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves, and Walker Kessler are locked into the starting lineup, leaving two starting spots open entering training camp. The writers argue that Quentin Grimes and Ziaire Williams represent the strongest candidates to claim the remaining two positions ahead of opening night on October 21 against the Golden State Warriors.

Beyond the starting unit, the Lakers face roster constraints with 16 guaranteed contracts and only 15 available regular-season spots. Basketball president Rob Pelinka indicated that roster cuts or consolidation trades remain possible, while rotation battles continue among reserves including Collin Sexton, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Jake LaRavia, and Matisse Thybulle.