The Los Angeles Lakers are navigating a familiar challenge: optimizing a roster brimming with talent. While the team boasts stars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis, finding the right starting lineup combination has proven elusive. A key debate throughout the offseason centered on the final starting spot, pitting Rui Hachimura against Marcus Smart. Though Hachimura initially secured the position, a shift in strategy has seen him move to the bench, prompting a reevaluation of the team’s best path forward. The question now isn’t simply about who starts, but whether the Lakers can move beyond traditional positional designations to unlock their full potential.
Early attempts to integrate Hachimura into the starting five alongside James, Davis, Austin Reaves, and Deandre Ayton didn’t yield the desired results. In 87 minutes played together – the second-most of any Lakers five-man lineup – that combination posted a concerning net rating of -22.4. This prompted coach JJ Redick to adjust the lineup, moving Hachimura to a permanent bench role. Now, with the Lakers hoping for sustained health, Redick faces a decision: deploy Jake LaRavia as a more conventional starter, or firmly establish Marcus Smart in the role?
The Stats Favor Marcus Smart
The case for Smart extends beyond simply filling a starting spot. The former Defensive Player of the Year has started 37 of 44 games for the Lakers this season, demonstrating his reliability and experience. However, the strongest argument for Smart lies in the data. The initial hesitation surrounding his inclusion in the starting lineup stemmed from concerns about positional fit – the idea of starting three guards alongside James and Davis seemed unconventional. But a closer look reveals that these concerns may be misplaced.
The perceived issue of having three guards on the court diminishes when considering Smart’s size; he is listed around 6-foot-8. More importantly, the numbers demonstrate a surprisingly effective synergy between Smart, Reaves, and Luka Doncic. While the starting lineup of those three plus James and Ayton has only seen 12 minutes of court time together, resulting in a net rating of -11.5, the three-guard combination of Doncic, Reaves, and Smart has flourished. They’ve posted a net rating of 25.9 in 172 minutes played together during the 2025-26 season, a significant indicator of their potential.
This trio’s combined offensive and defensive performance is particularly noteworthy. They boast an offensive rating of 125.3 and a defensive rating of 99.5, suggesting a well-rounded and impactful unit. These figures should alleviate any lingering doubts about Redick’s ability to effectively utilize three guards in the starting lineup consistently. The skill sets of these three players complement each other, allowing for dynamic playmaking, strong perimeter defense, and efficient scoring.
Beyond Position: A Focus on Synergy
The Lakers’ challenge isn’t about adhering to rigid positional definitions; it’s about maximizing the synergy between their best players. The traditional notion of needing a specific type of player at each position is becoming increasingly outdated in the modern NBA. What matters most is how players fit together, how they complement each other’s strengths, and how they contribute to a cohesive team dynamic.
The data clearly suggests that Smart, Reaves, and Doncic form a potent combination. Their ability to create scoring opportunities, defend effectively, and control the pace of the game makes them a valuable asset in the starting lineup. While concerns about the overall balance of the team are valid, the potential benefits of this three-guard combination outweigh the risks.
The Lakers’ success this season hinges on their ability to adapt and embrace unconventional strategies. Redick’s willingness to challenge traditional norms and prioritize player synergy will be crucial in unlocking the team’s full potential. By focusing on what works – and the numbers strongly suggest that Smart, Reaves, and Doncic work well together – the Lakers can position themselves for a deep playoff run.
As the Lakers navigate the remainder of the season, all eyes will be on Redick’s lineup decisions. The team’s next series against the Phoenix Suns, beginning February 28th, will provide a crucial test of their revamped starting lineup and overall strategy. The Lakers will need to demonstrate consistent performance and a clear understanding of their roles to solidify their position in the Western Conference playoff picture.
What do you believe? Should the Lakers continue to prioritize a three-guard lineup, or explore other options? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation.
