Why Taurean Prince must remain starter when Vanderbilt returns

Taurean Prince started on opening night for the Lakers against the Nuggets. While LA lost the game, Prince played extremely well in the starting unit.

Prince finished with 18 points, three rebounds, an assist, and a block. He shot 6-8 from the field and 4-6 from three.

Head coach Darvin Ham named Prince the starter before the opener, stating it as “partially circumstantial,” with Jarred Vanderbilt being out. Vanderbilt was traded to the Lakers at the trade deadline last season and played a big role for them down the stretch.

Vanderbilt thrives as a defensive forward and started at the end of last season. While he is a quality player, Prince is a better fit in the starting lineup and should keep his starting role, even when Vanderbilt returns.

Prince is also a quality defensive player, but more importantly, he is a consistent three-point shooter. In a lineup alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis, it is important to have defenders who can also space the floor.

Prince fills that role well, while Vanderbilt isn’t a reliable three-point shooter. Prince shot 38.1% from three last season, while Vanderbilt shot 32.2% from distance.

Prince said, “I will shoot 40% from 3 this season.” He is off to a great start, shooting 66.7% from that range in the first game.

Prince’s shooting and quality defense would better serve the starting role this season, while Vanderbilt can be a key piece off the bench.