Julius Randle is once again a man on a mission during this training camp, reportedly playing with an edge in light of the battle for the Los Angeles Lakers' starting power forward spot on the line.

Head coach Luke Walton noted his effort during camp has shown, given the challenge ahead of him with only eight days until the start of their regular season.

“He seems to be (ticked) off,” Walton said, according to ClutchPoints' Ryan Ward. “But he’s using it to play with an edge. And he’s been great in practice the past two or three days. I thought he had a phenomenal game in Vegas. Competition’s supposed to bring the best out of you. He’s really stepping his game up with that happening.”

Article Continues Below
More Los Angeles Lakers News
Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (left) defends against Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (right) during the fourth quarter at Chase Center.
Nick Wright drops the mic on LeBron James vs. Stephen Curry debateScotty White ·
Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) reacts during the second half in game five of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Crypto.com Arena
Luka Doncic reveals initial thought on living in LA after Lakers tradeJosue Pavon ·
Cooper Flagg talks to the media during the 2025 NBA Draft Combine at Marriott Marquis Chicago.
Lakers set first Cooper Flagg, Mavericks matchup in Las VegasMalik Brown ·
Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) moves the ball against the Houston Rockets during the first half at Crypto.com Arena.
Lakers Luka Doncic’s sends ‘speed’ message that will scare rest of NBANathan Yasis ·
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) smiles after his team scored against the Sacramento Kings during the fourth quarter at Golden 1 Center.
LeBron James’ former teammate provides eye-opening take on GOAT debateAlex House ·
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James warms up before the start of a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center.
Lakers’ LeBron James doesn’t hold back on clout-chasing trainersRichard Pereira ·

The Lakers have lost four of their first five preseason games, nabbing a win in an ugly war against the Sacramento Kings, with Randle leading the way with a game-high 17 points off the bench.

“With who is going to start at the four, that debate will go on,” said Walton. “We probably won't have a final answer until at least the last preseason game.”

Los Angeles is slated to play its sixth and last preseason game on the road against the L.A. Clippers on Friday, giving Walton one last chance to make that decision prior to facing the Clippers again in a home season-opener next Thursday.