Lakers coach Luke Walton told ESPN that the team has decided to start Rajon Rondo at the beginning of the season. This decision was made in response to Lonzo Ball’s recovery still in effect.

Ball has not yet been cleared to play in 5-on-5 games. So, the Lakers are preventing further injuries and will start the 32-year old Rondo.

The Lakers will open their season away against the Portland Trail Blazers on October 18.

Rajon Rondo to open season as Lakers starting PG while Lonzo Ball recovers from knee surgery, per @mcten https://t.co/iK4xBSUOW3 pic.twitter.com/yTPcQRisIB

— Bleacher Report NBA (@BR_NBA) September 25, 2018