The Los Angeles Lakers are set to battle the Golden State Warriors in the season opener. But even before the season started, the Lakers embraced terrible blows regarding their starting lineup.

LeBron James has been battling a sciatic injury on his right side for several months. Due to the issue, the 40-year-old veteran is expected to miss the beginning of the season.

With LeBron sidelined, the Lakers have had to reorganize their lineup heading into opening night. According to NBA insider Jake Weinbach, the Lakers’ projected starting five without James features Luka Doncic at point guard, Austin Reaves at shooting guard, Jarred Vanderbilt at small forward, Rui Hachimura at power forward, and Deandre Ayton at the center position.

Their bench depth includes key contributors such as Marcus

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