Lakers rumors: Five reasons to start Jordan Clarkson at point guard
By Keith Rivas
![Dec 23, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Jordan Clarkson (6) reacts against the Orlando Magic during the second half at Amway Center.Orlando Magic defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 109-90. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports Dec 23, 2016; Orlando, FL, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Jordan Clarkson (6) reacts against the Orlando Magic during the second half at Amway Center.Orlando Magic defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 109-90. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/685672812a8f31487a3ef39d48bdffb1e96124183ec8dba7e4cda076b767da84.jpg)
Luke Walton trusts him
If none of the other reasons push the team to the point of starting him, the faith that the head coach has in Clarkson goes without saying.
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This isn’t to say that Russell isn’t trusted, but the position switch puts Walton’s input at a critical level. Whatever he thinks of the point guard will echo through the rest of the team, as we saw with his predecessor, who had major issues with Russell.
In order for the team to grow, the chemistry and trust must also be there. It is the only type of foundation that the Lakers can depend on for their young core to actually develop into stars.
If the coach doesn’t trust the point guard, not just in Los Angeles, but for any team in any league, won’t that only be a disruption?
Distractions have run their course and served their purpose with the Lakers. They should be done with drama and get back to basketball — it’s in their best interest.
And the sooner they do that, the better they’ll be.