There was a presumption following free agency that D’Angelo Russell would continue to be the starting point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers. However, whispers arose that perhaps newcomer Gabe Vincent could steal the role.
Vincent was a key reason the Miami Heat made a Cinderella run to the NBA Finals last season. Although he shot just 33.4% from 3-point range during the regular season, he hit 37.8% from that distance in 22 playoff games. He is known as a tenacious defender who has the ability to scale up and guard somewhat bigger opponents.
However, Lakers head coach Darvin Ham confirmed on Thursday that Russell will start at point guard. Vincent doesn’t seem to mind, based on a comment he made (h/t Lakers Daily).
Via Sportskeeda:
“That’s something for D Ham to worry about,” Vincent told Sportskeeda. “I’m not the coach. I don’t set lineups. I just go out there and do my job. I’ll do whatever I can to help this team win games.”
Depending on what transpires, perhaps Vincent will have the opportunity to earn the right to be on the floor in crunch time. Regardless, he projects as a key part of whatever success Los Angeles had this coming season.