{
  "id": 10854111,
  "title": "The start of training camp looks very competitive for the Lakers",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/30/the-start-of-training-camp-looks-very-competitive-for-the-lakers",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-30T04:06:44.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/start-training-camp-looks-very-040644945.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Tuesday marked the opening day of training camp for the Los Angeles Lakers, and this year, their depth appears stronger than in recent seasons. The bench has traditionally been a weak point, but this year it boasts a number of viable role players who are not only vying for significant playing time but also a starting lineup spot. Head coach JJ Redick has made it abundantly clear that two starting lineup spots are up for grabs, with a potential five players in contention. Speaking to the Los Angeles Times, Redick emphasized the meritocratic nature of their approach, stating, \"You got to earn your minutes, and you cheer for your teammates while you’re doing it.\" Among the players with a strong claim to the starting five are two-way wing Quentin Grimes, Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and Walker Kessler. Grimes himself expressed his ambition to make the starting lineup during Media Day, highlighting the Lakers' emphasis on two-way players. Other prospects include Matisse Thybulle, a seasoned three-and-D wing, Ziaire Williams, whose three-point shooting is showing upward potential, and Jake LaRavia, who may regain his shooting stroke. Adou Thiero, a second-year forward who had an exceptional offseason, could also outperform his teammates to claim a spot. While the Lakers are in need of more three-point shooters, defense has emerged as the key to securing one of the two available starting slots or earning a spot in the regular rotation. Redick noted his team's dedication to their defensive roles, praising their physicality, grabbing, holding, and disruptive play without unnecessary risks. The Lakers' first preseason game against the Sacramento Kings is set for Monday, October 5th.",
  "summary": "The Lakers have numerous candidates for their two available starting lineup spots.",
  "key_points": [
    "Training camp opens Tuesday for Los Angeles Lakers",
    "Head coach JJ Redick emphasizes meritocracy for starting spots",
    "Five players contend for two starting lineup positions"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}