Who should start at small forward for the Lakers?

There appear to be three candidates for the Lakers’ starting small forward spot, and all of them come with their unique strengths and flaws.

As training camp for the 2023-24 NBA season nears, the Los Angeles Lakers have a very strong roster, and a good portion of their starting lineup seems set.

It is certain that LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Austin Reaves will start for them on opening night, barring some very strange developments. It is also presumed that D’Angelo Russell, acquired in February’s Russell Westbrook trade, will start at point guard, although there have been whispers that free agent acquisition Gabe Vincent could steal that spot from him.

The starting small forward spot is a different situation. It could be something of an open competition, or at least a question mark. There are three players, at least conceivably, who could end up getting that role for the Purple and Gold.