The Los Angeles Lakers would love to start Marcus Smart over Rui Hachimura, but Jovan Buha noted that the 6’8 forward has preferred to start in recent years. Head coach JJ Redick needs a point of attack defender in his opening group. With Luka Doncic, LeBron James, Austin Reaves, and Deandre Ayton locked in, the Lakers must use Smart. That only works if Hachimura is bought into the sixth man role and producing like fans know he can.
This is Luka Doncic’s team now. Hachimura is on an expiring contract and playing for his future in LA.