Before succumbing from a right thumb injury that required immediate surgery, young talent Talen Horton-Tucker was a hot topic within the Lakers’ coaching hub.
The 20-year-old was discussed, and the possibility of him moving into the starting lineup to join stars LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Russell Westbrook became a focal point.
“But he is by far the most important young player on an old team; the Lakers signaled as much by re-signing Horton-Tucker to a three-year, $30.8 million deal, effectively choosing him over Alex Caruso, and coaches discussed the possibility of starting Horton-Tucker this season, sources say.”
– ESPN’s Zach Lowe
THT managed to register an average of 9.0 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists while cracking up as the starting two-guard in certain games of the injury-riddled campaign of Lakeshow last season, ultimately failing to defend the title after a 4-1 meltdown against the Phoenix Suns in the first round of the playoffs.
Horton-Tucker will miss the opener against the Golden State Warriors later. He will be re-evaluated in the upcoming month and there is no timetable yet for the return.
