The sciatica injury for LeBron James forced JJ Redick to get creative with the deployment of the Los Angeles Lakers early in the new season. One of the key decisions the Lakers coach was left with had to do with how the starting lineup looks in the absence of James. Redick made his choice.
Lakers’ starters vs. Sacramento:
Luka Doncic
Gabe Vincent
Austin Reaves
Rui Hachimura
Deandre Ayton
JJ Redick said pregame that this is the group that will start on opening night vs. Golden State.— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) October 18, 2025Ahead of the opening night matchup against the Golden State Warriors, the second-year head coach decided Gabe Vincent would get the starting nod.