The Los Angeles Lakers are gearing up for the 2025-26 season with a new-look roster, but one position battle has already tilted in a clear direction. According to Anthony Irwin of ClutchPoints, forward Rui Hachimura is the strong favorite to land the fifth starting spot over guard Marcus Smart, joining Luka Doncic, LeBron James, Austin Reaves, and Deandre Ayton in JJ Redick’s projected starting five.
The reasoning behind the decision comes down to continuity, health, and roster balance. Hachimura has been with the Lakers since 2023 and has built on-court chemistry with James, Reaves, and now Doncic.
Last season, the 27-year-old forward averaged 13.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.4 assists while shooting an efficient 50.9% from the field and 41.3% from three. With a reliable jumper and size at 6-foot-8, he provides spacing and versatility alongside two of the league’s most ball-dominant stars in James and Doncic.
Meanwhile, Marcus Smart entered camp with physical setbacks. The former Defensive Player of the Year is dealing with Achilles tendinopathy, sidelining him at least through the first week of training camp.
The Lakers are wary of overextending him early, preferring to keep the 31-year-old healthy for the postseason. Smart averaged 9.0 points, 3.2 assists, and 2.1 rebounds last season, split between Memphis and Washington, but only appeared in 34 games.
His defensive intensity and leadership are unquestioned, yet asking him to log heavy starter minutes immediately is a risk the coaching staff isn’t eager to take.
Hachimura addressed the starting conversation at media day, saying he is more focused on playing time than his official role. Smart, by contrast, made it clear he is ready to embrace whatever role Redick assigns him.
Continuity is also part of the Lakers’ strategy for the early season. With a relatively light schedule to open the year, the front office and coaching staff want to build momentum quickly and secure a high seed in a brutal Western Conference.
The idea is that maintaining stability with four familiar starters will help new center Deandre Ayton integrate smoothly.
There’s also a business side to the decision. Hachimura is entering a contract year on an $18.3 million expiring deal. While Smart also has a player option, the Lakers don’t want to risk alienating Hachimura by benching him before the season even begins. Giving him the opportunity to prove his value could keep him engaged while boosting his market value in free agency.
For now, the Lakers’ projected lineup looks like Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, and Deandre Ayton. Nothing is set in stone, but all signs point to Hachimura holding a significant edge.
