Shawne Williams says he’s expecting to start against Clippers

Shawne Williams said he expects to be an opening-night starter for the Lakers on Tuesday night as they host the Clippers at Staples Center.

“That’s what I heard,” said Williams.

Coach Mike D’Antoni remained coy, opting not to name his starting five, but he did acknowledge recently that Steve Nash, Steve Blake and Pau Gasol would be three of the five.

Another option would be Chris Kaman, who played well alongside Gasol during the preseason. Kaman, however, recently battled a stomach ailment.

“Winded” is how Kaman described himself after practice.

Nick Young, who started all eight preseason games, would presumably round out the starting lineup.

Williams averaged 18 minutes a game through the preseason, scoring 6.8 points a night with 4.4 rebounds.

D’Antoni considered Williams a “stretch four” because of his mobility and three-point shot.

Kaman could end up in the starting lineup once he’s fully recovered, especially if the Lakers struggle through their early schedule.

Kobe Bryant will miss the opener while recovering from a torn Achilles’ tendon. Though Nash is battling through neck and ankle soreness, he’s expected to play against the Clippers.

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Email Eric Pincus at [email protected] and follow him on Twitter @EricPincus.