Lakers Reveal Potential Starting Lineup with Preseason Finale Surprise

The Los Angeles Lakers showcased a potential starting lineup during their preseason finale on Friday night, featuring a surprising inclusion that could carry into their regular-season opener.

In the game against the Denver Nuggets, the Lakers started Matisse Thybulle and Ziaire Williams alongside Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and Walker Kessler. This unit differs from the expected regular-season starters, particularly with Thybulle's presence.

Doncic, Reaves, and Kessler, often referred to as the team's "Big 3," were already confirmed starters. Williams, who had missed the previous three exhibition games, also returned to the lineup and was anticipated to start.

The notable shift was Matisse Thybulle starting over Quentin Grimes. However, head coach JJ Redick indicated that Grimes will still be a starter during the regular season. Redick explained that the lineup tested on Friday was the original plan for a prior game when Collin Sexton was unavailable. "We just want to get a look on that [on Friday] and we'll see," Redick said. "But nothing definitive for next week [against the Warriors]."

Despite this, the lineup featuring Thybulle could be the one to take the court when the Lakers host the Golden State Warriors to begin the regular season next week. Redick acknowledged that Grimes might not start opening night but will still have opportunities to begin games for the Lakers.