Apparently, the Kings are sticking with Ty Lawson — and that likely means he will be with the team opening night.
Lawson had to meet with team officials to explain missing the Kings’ recent flight to Kentucky for an exhibition game, and being late to a shootaround in Las Vegas a few days before that. With Lawson’s history of personal issues, a lot of eyebrows went up at that news.
But Monday he was on the court practicing with the team, reports James Ham of CSNBayArea.com.When the media doors opened to the Kings practice facility at the new Golden 1 Center Monday afternoon, point guard Ty Lawson was on the floor with his teammates. It’s been a rocky 72 hours for the 28-year-old after he missed a team flight to Kentucky, but he’s survived for the moment and will remain part of the Kings roster....
Known for his speed and quickness, the Kings have been optimistic throughout camp that Lawson can start in Collison’s absence and provide a major spark off the bench once (Darren) Collison returns.
Vlade Divac said Ty Lawson did miss flight to Kentucky. He said after meeting with him he felt good about him on he team going forward
— Sean Cunningham (@SeanCunningham) October 17, 2016
Dave Joerger says there is a lot of incorrect information out there regarding Ty Lawson. Wouldn't clarify, says it's a personal issue
— Sean Cunningham (@SeanCunningham) October 17, 2016
Darren Collison will be the starter for the Kings at the one this season, but he is suspended for the first eight games following a plea deal in a domestic violence case. Lawson was in competition with Jordan Farmar and Isaiah Cousins for the backup point guard spot and to start those eight games (none of the three have a guaranteed contract). Lawson was considered the clear leader before this latest incident. He is shooting 64.3 percent (9-of-14, 1-of-2 from three) so far in the preseason and has been strong on the offensive end, and that has him likely to be a King on opening night.
Whatever reason he had for missing the flight appears to be acceptable (or, at least, forgivable) to the Kings front office.