Lakers potential fifth starter options include LaRavia and Williams
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 17, 2026, 3:50 PM
Last updated Sep 17, 2026
Los Angeles Lakers analyst Jovan Buha analyzed candidates for the team's fifth starter position following the departures of LeBron James and Rui Hachimura. Buha identified Jake LaRavia and Ziaire Williams as primary contenders for the power forward role. He noted LaRavia's physical tools and shooting potential, while highlighting Williams' athleticism and defensiveness. Other candidates mentioned were Sandro Mamukelashvili, Matisse Thybulle, Adou Thiero, and Jarred Vanderbilt, though Buha expressed concerns over their fit. The Lakers will assess their options before potentially exploring trade opportunities mid-season if performance is lacking.
- •Jake LaRavia and Ziaire Williams are top candidates for the fifth starter.
- •LaRavia averaged 8.2 points and 4.0 rebounds last season.
- •Williams averaged 10.2 points with 42.5% shooting last season.
- •Lakers lost LeBron James and Rui Hachimura, prompting the search for a power forward.
- •Trade options may be explored if current candidates do not perform well.
- 3:50 PMYahoo Sports — Lakers Analyst Picks Jake LaRavia and $2.4M Free Agent Signing to Compete For 5th Starter’s Spot
"Los Angeles Lakers analyst Jovan Buha dissected the team’s options for the fifth starter’s role this season. After LeBron James and Rui Hachimura’s departures, questions arose about who Los Angeles might select to play power forward.
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