
While it's unknown what the Lakers' starting lineup will be once Luka Doncic makes his debut, many expect Hachimura to head to the bench. Dorian Finney-Smith (seven points, three rebounds, six assists, one block, and one 3-pointer in 34 minutes) may not have Rui's offensive ceiling, but his defense and 3-point shooting likely give him the edge. Moving to the bench would cut into Hachimura's value, but it may free him up some offensively, as that's unlikely to be the case if he's on the court with Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves to begin games.
In addition to Luka Doncic not being ready to make his Lakers debut (that may happen on Monday), LeBron James (ankle) is not available. Vincent moves into the starting lineup, which boosts his fantasy value. Given the high-profile absences, he's worth streaming in deep leagues. The other four starters are unchanged.
James was initially questionable for Saturday's game but downgraded to doubtful late Friday evening. He's been ruled out, so neither he nor Luka Doncic will be available. Rui Hachimura will benefit the most, especially if Austin Reaves also sits, while Gabe Vincent will likely move into the starting lineup.
James was initially listed as questionable to play in this game, but he is now expected to miss just his third game of the season and his first since December. Luka Doncic has already been ruled out, and Austin Reaves is questionable as well. They may be incredibly shorthanded, so players like Gabe Vincent, Shake Milton and Rui Hachimura will have to step up as scorers.
The Lakers will be without Luka Doncic for at least one more game, which means the Lakers could be wildly shorthanded if Bron or Reaves are ruled out. A committee approach would likely be used to fill in for the pair, with guys like Gabe Vicent, Dorian Finney-Smith, Rui Hachimura and Jarred Vanderbilt picking up the slack.