The LA Lakers lost their opening match in this season of the NBA against the Minnesota Timberwolves by only one point but this may have been enough for coach Byron Scott to reconsider his team's structure. According to a report from the NBA, Scott is putting rookie point guard D'Angelo Russell back in the starting lineup.
Russell was in the starting five during the preseason matches but this was changed due to a minor injury during their last game. For the match against the Timberwolves, Scott reportedly decided to swap Russell out with Jordan Clarkson not only because of the latter's experience but because of his speed.
Now, however, it appears that the ball will be given back to Russell and Clarkson explains in the report that this move to swap him back in was orchestrated by both coach Scott and star player Kobe Bryant.
"That's what Russell does best is organize the offense. [Clarkson] is a great attack player. So on the back side, I think it's probably more useful. Russell loves organizing the game. He's a great playmaker, facilitator. That's where he's best suited," Bryant explained. He also confirms that Russell is "phenomenal" in directing offense.
This sentiment was then echoed by Scott, who explained that despite Russell being a 19-year-old rookie, he is still a good decision maker.
According to the report, Russell stated that while he is comfortable playing from the bench, he admits it is better to be in the starting lineup as it helps him strategize and discover the best tactics to break the opponent's defenses. He also explains that during practice he has formed a strong chemistry with the other starters which would play an important role in their performance.
The LA Lakers, now with D'Angelo Russell on the ball, will have their next game against the Sacramento Kings this Friday, Oct. 30.
