Overview

• Four starting roles are effectively set with LeBron James, Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves and Deandre Ayton, leaving one slot in play.
• Rui Hachimura is viewed by team-connected sources as the heavy early favorite for that spot, a stance strengthened by Marcus Smart’s expected absence for at least the first week of camp with Achilles tendinopathy.
• Hachimura said the decision belongs to coach JJ Redick and emphasized the group’s existing chemistry, while Smart stated he is focused on winning regardless of whether he starts.
• An insider indicated the front office “really likes” Hachimura and would require a high bar to trade him, a notable stance as he enters a contract year.
• Analysts continue to flag defense as the roster’s primary concern, and Redick described a longer ramp-up for James after a glute issue with the goal of being ready for opening night.