Westbrook and Nunn in the Lakers’ first Tests in the starting XI

Russell Westbrook is in the starting XI for the Lakers. At least in the early Tests, that status holds true, contrary to what many were quick to support due to the constant paraphilology about his future in Los Angeles.

The news was announced by Darwin Hamm in a statement, explaining that Westbrook, Kendrick Nunn – who is returning after a year’s absence – and Damian Jones are currently the three players he has chosen to play LeBron James and Anthony Davis in to flank the starting line-up top 5 of the team.

These particular five are of course interesting for a number of reasons. From the fact that Westbrook is – at least initially – favored over Patrick Beverley for the starting XI, to the importance of Nunn to the Lakers’ plan and that Jones (acquired in the summer) – at least initially – won the fight from Thomas Bryant for the Position of the main center next to Davis.

“With Nan, it’s like we got a new player after missing all of last season. I told him it’s a big part of what we’re trying to do.” Hamm said before referring to Jones as well, stating: “Damian is young and sporty tall. He runs around the court like a deer, jumping up and focusing on defense while protecting the basket. It shields well and rolls hard, a threat to the basket.”

It’s clear the Lakers still have a long way to go before they settle into their starting XI. However, early indications point to a certain level of Ham’s reasoning.