Lakers’ Jeremy Lin to return as a reserve

ANAHEIM — Any hope that Jeremy Lin becomes the Lakers’ starting point guard remains on hold.

Lin will come off the bench when the Lakers host the Phoenix Suns tonight at Honda Center after missing the past week because of a sprained left ankle. Lakers veteran guard Ronnie Price will start for the fourth consecutive game, while Steve Nash remains sidelined with back spasms.

“There’s not a thought process right now,” Lakers coach Byron Scott said. “Ronnie has been playing and Jeremy hasn’t. He’ll have to come in and get his feet wet and then go from there.”

Price has sparked rave reviews during training camp for various reasons. The nine-year NBA veteran has averaged 8.5 points and 4.8 assists in 31 minutes per game with steady playmaking and aggressive defense.

“He goes after people,” Scott said. “He’s one of those guys that plays with a ton of energy and a lot of heart. He’s a tough kid. I love the way he started out the games.”


RELATED:

Lakers’ Jeremy Lin poses as adidas employee

Lakers’ Jordan Hill envisions better season without Mike D’Antoni and alcohol

Follow L.A. Daily News Lakers beat writer Mark Medina on Twitter and on Facebook. E-mail him at mark.medina@langnews.com