6 Lakers who could get axed from Darvin Ham's playoff rotation

1. Taurean Prince

Prince has played the fifth-most minutes for the Lakers this season, but his playing time is trending down. He was moved to the bench in early February as Rui Hachimura jumped into the starting five. Over his last 26 games, Prince is averaging 7.8 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 21.8 minutes per game, while shooting over 41.1 percent from 3-point range.

The Lakers are 24th in 3-pointers made this season. They need shooters around LeBron James and Anthony Davis, but Prince’s subpar defense could see him axed from the playoff rotation. The 6’6 wing has produced a negative-0.4 VORP this season, and the Lakers have a negative-3.1 net rating with Prince on the floor.

He played 20 minutes per game for the Timberwolves in the 2023 postseason, but finding that playing time will be more challenging in Los Angeles. Prince’s size and versatility will get him opportunities, but he may not stick in the rotation. Coach Ham will have options and could dictate his choices based on matchups and recent play.

The Los Angeles Lakers are heating up at the right time. They have won eight of their last nine games and believe they can make another deep playoff run. Stay tuned to see who coach Ham plays and how it all shakes out.