The Lakers may be back on the mainland after eight days in Hawaii, but they did not fare any better against the Raptors than they did versus the Jazz. In their third preseason game, the Lakers fell 105-97 to the Raptors and remain winless in the exhibition season.
As we touched on in our preview, the team was a little shorthanded, but much like the game on Tuesday, there are positives to take away from the contest. The team competed on both ends of the floor for long stretches, got continued good play from key players, and good long looks at both Robert Upshaw and Jonathan Holmes for the first time this preseason. All in all, then, there was a lot of good to happen even though the final score brought another loss.
On to the notes…
*Julius Randle has found his rhythm. After a strong showing on Tuesday night, he was back at it again on Thursday, shooting 7-10 from the field and 3-4 from the foul line to score 17 points. He also added 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and a ton of activity all over the floor. As I noted on twitter during the game, he simply has so many tools and incredible quickness for his size that it’s impossible to not notice him when he’s in the game. He did a fair amount of ball handling against Toronto, not only turning rebounds into open court chances, but bringing the ball up on several possessions while Clarkson and Kobe worked off the ball to start a set. He also offered the play of the night:
*Kobe had another good night, moving well within the flow of the offense and working well both on and off the ball. He scored 16 points on 11 FGA’s while making all four of his foul shots and chipped in 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals in only 21 minutes. I think the biggest positive for Kobe is that he’s finally finding his timing and looks more comfortable mixing in his work as a secondary ball handler after the team runs initial actions with his work as a low and mid-post option. He’s also doing very good work as a passer, not just in the half court but when initiating the break by looking ahead for teammates who are getting out to run. I’ve said for most of the summer that the team will play quicker when Kobe is in the game and part of that is the fact that he can still be a positive force with the added freedom the open court provides as both a passer and a finisher. Thursday night showed both sides of that.
*Lou Williams may not wow you with efficiency — he made only 6 of his 15 shots — but he remains effective as a scoring option off the bench. He led the team with 19 points and showed off his normal mix of long range shots and floaters with his ability to get to the foul line. What continues to be a positive is his passing, however. He only had two assists on the night, but he made several good reads out of the pick and roll, throwing skip passes to the circling wing when the defense dug in to take away the paint. This isn’t next level passing, but it’s more than what some other players are offering in the same situations (cough, Jabari Brown, cough).
*Robert Upshaw made his preseason debut and looked very good for a lot of his minutes. He opened his scoring with a dunk and hit a nifty turnaround 17 foot jumper from the baseline over Bismack Biyombo shortly after. What most impressed, though, was his overall activity and how much better shape he was in compared to summer league. His slimmed physique clearly translated to better endurance, mobility, and quickness all over the floor. Another thing that I liked was how he really sprinted to the top of the floor to set picks and then dove just as hard to the front of the rim after holding his screens. His timing still isn’t where it needs to be — defensively he was a half a beat slow to be in the right spot on a lot of possessions — but he was still able to challenge shots, earning two blocks with his effort. Overall it was an impressive 25 minutes he sprung together.
*Keeping on the new guy theme, Jonathan Holmes also made his preseason debut. He was not nearly as good as Upshaw and only played 13 minutes, but did show good rebounding ability (he led the team with 6 in his short stint) and showed good awareness on both sides of the ball. His timing was not there — understandably so — but I mostly liked what I saw and would like to see more of him in the coming games.
*I like what Byron Scott is doing with his big man rotations. Tarik Black and Robert Sacre got DNP-CD’s in this game, with Upshaw, Nance Jr., and Holmes getting all the burn behind Hibbert and Randle. Not trying to get everyone in the game allows the guys who do play a chance to get extended run, find their rhythm, and really show what they can do over a string of real minutes. This allows for better evaluation and, I’m sure from the player’s perspective, a real chance to prove they can play at this level.
*Jordan Clarkson didn’t have any wow plays this game, but is showing a steadiness which continues to impress. Moving to the point with Russell out meant a more deliberate game, but he did well executing the team’s sets and balancing when to look for his own with when to get his teammates involved.
*Having Hibbert to protect the paint helps the defense so much, but he can’t solve all this team’s problems. The perimeter guys still make too many mistakes within possessions, messing up the scheme’s continuity in the process. For example, on one play, Nick Young had his man in good position along the sideline, but didn’t keep him contained and allowed him to dribble middle. When that happened, Clarkson over-helped on the drive and left his man open beyond the arc. Young’s man then hit Clarkson’s man who buried the wide open three. This was a recurring theme all night.
*Related: the Raptors hit 10 of their 21 three pointers.
*I like the smarts Larry Nance Jr. plays with on both sides of the ball. Also like that he plays within himself and isn’t forcing the issue. Sometimes I think he can be a little too safe, but he’s a rookie and also doesn’t want to make mistakes. I do love his physical tools, though. Once he figures out how to leverage those tools while adding a bit more risk to his game, I think he can be a real player in the league. We’ll see if he can put it together.
matt says
Upshaw looked lost..did not box out..sloppy looking pic n rolls…but on the upside did look like a potential scorer…i dont think he’s ever played against nba type players tell this game.. i was not impressed
alanfredffb says
Upshaw needs to make the team, plain and simple. We know what Sacre is (a barely hanging on limited backup center), and he’s tapped out his potential. Upshaw has personal problems but those can likely be best addressed with the support system at the NBA level, rather than leaving him adrift in the D league (he can be sent down for short stints to get PT; a long time is a recipe for trouble). Tonight Upshaw showed flashes of his potential that led some to think he could have been a 1st round player if the problems weren’t there.
Jabari Brown is a scorer, but he won’t contribute with Kobe, Nick and Lou on the roster, and he plays very selfishly, which he showed abundantly in Summer League, and he has not changed. He should be among the first cuts, IMO.
Ryan Kelly has not shown consistency of his 3 point shot during all his time in the NBA, and that is his only reason for being on the roster. He’s poor on D, lacks strength, can’t rebound for a 4 and is too slow for 3. If he could shoot like Dirk, all is forgiven, but that is not happening.
Sacre, Jabari and Kelly should be cut loose (or traded for 2nd round picks; even 3rd round if that is added as rumored), and Upshaw and Holmes need a chance to show if they can be contributors to a contending team, while Sacre, Kelley and Jabari Brown have shown they won’t be, after having ample time to show it.
Keeping the cheaper young players is also consistent with having players with potential and still maximizing cap room.
dxmanners says
I’m a Jabari Brown fan, but I think his days are numbered with Lou Williams in town. Upshaw looked good enough tonight to make me think he’ll improve over time-definitely a higher ceiling than Sacre.
Ed says
Upshaw didn`t wow me,but he played OK for the 1`st time, Needs time to develop. Holmes missed a couple shots he needs to make to be on the final 15.
bleedpurplegold says
I dont read much into a 0-3 preseason so far….byron is doing the right thing here, mixing up rotations and taking extended looks at different guys. I saw some things that are promising. Upshaw looks like he can be a contributor on the next level, if he gets his timing down he could be a solid backup for us next season. I like the energy he is playing with, he looks like he knows he got something to prove. Kobe looks good so far, but i think he shouldnt play mich more than those 21min when the regular season rolls around, maybe something like 25-28mins. Hope clarkson keeps developing the way he has, he looks good, i like his cuts off the ball. And what can you say about randle…..he is a future all star, huge upside offensivly, just imagine that guy being able to shoot a jumper from 15-18ft…and defensivly, he plays with a lot of energy, would like to see him get some more rebounds on that end, but overall i think he could help us turn this thing around the next 2-3 seasons.
D. Peterson says
I turned to my wife during the game and told her Julius Randle has legitimate star potential. His energy and confidence are contagious, and he just looks ready for the big stage. I can’t wait to see him, Clarkson, Kobe and Russell develop chemistry.
I like the way Kobe works within the offense. He’s not the ballstoper he’s been at times in the past. Of course, a lot of that has to do with all the good ball handlers on the court for the Lakers. Kobe just looks a little more content to let the youngsters get touches and run the offnse, and looks like he’s developing some nice old man game. If Kobe plays at this level or slightly higher all year without significant injury, he will absolutely play next year.
Upshaw > Sacre. No reason to give Sacre any more run. Upshaw is raw and has question marks, but he’s taking well to the incentives the Lakers have given him and he at least says all the right things about hard work, defense, and making the most of his opportunity. We know what Sacre has to offer, and Upshaw’s upside is obviously greater. Sacre vs. Upshaw will not be the difference between a playoff spot and the lottery. For the relatively minor amount of salary the Lakers would have to eat if they release Sacre, it seems like an easy decision at this point.
So far, I’m really encouraged by what I see on the court. For the first time in awhile, the players on the team seem to actually like each other for the most part. But I’m still holding off on the NBA League Pass until we see where things stand at Christmas. Go Lakers!
Lil pau says
My biggest issue is, try as I might, I can’t find anything Swaggy does that Lou doesn’t do much better. Cuts to me look like: Holmes , J Brown, Sacre, and Young/Kelly in the unlikely event one could be moved
matt says
Upshaw looked funny when he got dunked on..looks like he closed his eyes and stuck his hand up..playing against men changes everything
david h says
darius: I see more upside than downside for Upshaw. was just waiting to say that for some time now. he looks like a young man out to prove his self worth to the game of basketball, if not here in lakerland, he will be welcome elsewhere with open arms. so why not here? he reminds me a little of a young Robert Parish; stoic; unafraid; arms, legs, elbows and knees. not quite there and may never be, but I see some potential there; especially with his willingness to go after the block shot and shot altering moves and unafraid to look and take his own shot. most importantly; he has youth and apparent determination. not bad for an nba rookie. projection: hibbert’s back up.
randle continues to shine and let’s not jinx that. liking the deadly assassin ninja like game Clarkson brings at either guard position; and oh yeah; that 37 year old aarp guy i continue to marvel as he continues to evolve his game around both youth and experience. health, of course is tantamount to having a successful season as espn’s 93rd nba ranked player. that alone will continue to motivate him.
in conclusion, seeing more upside to this year’s laker team and i’m just not talking about practice, I mean Upshaw.
Go lakers
Comrade says
I loved seeing Kobe play within the offense and not trying to play hero ball. For a stretch of the game, he even seemed to defer to Randle offensively. Him taking a step back and being a little more Vino and a little less Mamba will definitely help the team in the short term, the young players in the long term, and may even extend Kobe’s career.
dashun smith says
#CoachCantCoach!!! He can’t put players on the court at the same time that’ll stop transission defense, his Rotation’s Suxx!!!
Anonymous says
I like Randle’s energy. However, I still see him as a small forward in a tweener’s body — without the jump shot. He’s fine playing against forwards the same size as he’s more than held his own these last two games. Its just that he did not play well when matched up against Derek Favors in the first game.
Even with the move to small ball there are plenty of teams with Fours bigger than Randle. I just worry that his offense will be negated in bigger matchups. I’m also still looking for him to really hit the boards. I’m not sure pairing him with a glorified SG (Kobe or Young) as the other forward is best. I think he needs to be paired with a forward that can hit the boards while having three pt range.
I can’t remember who brought this up a few threads ago but I agree. The Lakers need a SF with size who can shoot and board or a PF who can shoot. I think Randle is a keeper but that the Lakers won’t really compete until they figure out the right forward to pair with him.
JeffT says
I’m really looking forward to getting Huertas back and getting the ball out of hands of Williams/Young. I find myself praying that they end up passing the ball rather than finding another 3-pointer instead of initiating the offense. Having a legit point guard to run the second unit will tighten up the offense and improve the flow. Is there any news on when we might see the Brazilian?
KevTheBold says
A few notes:
1. I can see the definite lack of team direction when D’Angelo is on the bench. Let’s hope he stays healthy.
2. I’m amazed at Randle, that kid is a nightmare to opposing teams, and a hero for the Lakers.
3. Holmes and Nance are both supra athletic around the boards, and both are a steal. Keep em !
4. Upshaw is showing his potential as both a defensive giant plus a savvy scorer. The Lakers would severely regret if they don’t sign him, because some other team will.
5. Jabari is athletic, yet a bit selfish and undisciplined. Selfish also is Williams.
6. Both Kelly and Sacre are NO LONGER NEEDED. Wave them, then wave to them, as the bus pulls away.
Vasheed says
I agree with Anonymous, on Randle. I’m not very confident in his ability to guard the post. But he has been really terrific guarding at the perimeter, and pushing the ball. So far I’ve been pleased with his play.
I believe Upshaw is the future. The talent is there. He would make a solid back up this year and could become a foundation piece in the future. Sacre gets trashed on the forum a lot but, I respect what he does as a 3rd string. Problem is Upshaw is simply better. I believe it should come to a cut between Black and Sacre. Sacre offers a 3rd 7 footer who has a guaranteed contract. Black offers a different look being able to play small ball center and the versatility to move to PF. I would prefer cutting Sacre.
I’m also looking forward to seeing Huertas getting on the court. Having capable floor generals for the entire game should make a big difference in how effective the Lakers are this year.
J C says
Nice post by Kev the Bold
Agree on all counts.
And yeah Williams is selfish but that’s what we pay him for. I’m not too keen on his game ending shots.
Randle blossoming already. Not a fluke game last night.
Yes he may struggle against the better 4s in the league but who doesn’t? Last night I officially jumped on the Randle bandwagon. He’s quirky, unique, quick and strong. And only 20. Just needs to improve his 18 foot jumper.
Kobe looks fantastic.
If he can keep playing like this, unselfishly and efficiently, it’ll be great for the team and for the NBA and for his legacy.
Basquiatball says
I’m worried that if the Lakers don’t make a run soon they might not make the regular season.
Oltimer says
Randle is improving in every game though D’angelo is a project in my opinion as a starter PG. He has to clean up those TO’s and acquaint more with his teammates. Holmes and Upshaw should be part of the roster but not as closer. Scott wants to experiment his roster by losing the last five minutes. Is he a Coach designed for tanking? Got to close the game with a W to remove that Laker image of a loser for all seasons.
matt says
Upshaw needs to put his big boy pants on
Mid-Wilshire says
Observations on Preseason game #3:
1) Julius Randle looks superb. Kobe said it best: He’s Lamar Odom in Zach Randolph’s body. And he’s only 20 years old. Twenty.
2) Jordan Clarkson is light years ahead of where he was last year at this time. Last night he had 11 pts. (5-11 shooting), 6 assists, 4 rebounds, and one steal in less than 24 minutes. At that rate, he would have had a double-double in 36-38 minutes. Last year at this time, we would not have seen this from him at all. I think JC will be fine.
3) I think the Lakers actually missed D’Angelo Russell last night even though he has yet to truly shine. I think the Lakers will come to rely on him (and Huertas) more and more as the year goes on.
4) The perimeter defense was poor. The Lakers were simply not containing anyone. The two Raptor guards scored 41 pts. between them and both shot 8-13. Demarre Carroll was wide open on too many shots. The perimeter defense must absolutely tighten up. This could be the team’s highest priority.
5) I like Larry Nance, Jr’s energy. The same goes for Jonathan Holmes. Nance ( a first round pick) will probably make the team. Holmes, I think, will be signed to the D League. But both look like players who can contribute without necessarily scoring a great deal. Later in the year, I think you’ll be able to put Nance in the game without worrying too much about his being a mere rookie.
6) Finally, the backup center position just got much more interesting. Despite matt’s animus toward Robert Upshaw (see comments above), I thought that Upshaw showed enough raw skill and innate talent to make the 3rd string center position a real battle. If the decision were to be made today, I believe that the Lakers would keep Tarik Black as the 2nd team center and Robert Sacre as the 3rd team center with Upshaw being sent down to the D League for more seasoning. BUT, if Upshaw continues to progress and, above all, show a real defensive presence (like his block on Cory Joseph which was truly spectacular), then the Lakers could simply decide to cut Robert Sacre loose and roll the dice with Upshaw. Right now, it’s a horse race. This could be the most competitive position battle of all.
The rest of the preseason could actually be fairly interesting.
matt says
Keys to lakers success this year
In order of importance
1. Kobe returns strong
2. Hibbert back to allstar form
3. Randle avg. 18 pts. 10 rebs.
4. Nick young shots good or is traded for defensive sf
5.lou will plays well off bench
6. Either kelly, metta, nance, or ?? Steps up and plays good, giving us a legit sf
7. Clarkson is better than last year
8. Russell makes everyone better
9. Bass and black are good back up bigs
Anonymous says
I saw this on Silver Screen and Roll:
http://www.silverscreenandroll.com/2015/10/7/9476141/main-reasons-why-the-lakers-wont-achieve-the-8th-seed-besides-health
KevTheBold says
To Matt’s comment on Upshaw; were times last night when I thought the same, that he seemed a bit weak in the determination department.
Then I recalled his first summer league game against Towns, and how aggressive he was,…and the resulting fouls as a result.
So it’s my belief that the coach advised him to turn it back a notch, as even a greatest center is useless from the bench.
Mid-Wilshire says
Regarding Upshaw: this was his first game ever in a true NBA setting (albeit in a preseason game). He’s a true rookie. He’s been away from the game since February. And he’s only 21 years old. I suggest that we cut him some slack and give him a chance to develop. He’s very young and he has a long ways to go…as do all rookies.
Personally, although he looked like a deer in the headlights at times, I was fairly pleased. He had 6 pts. on 3-4 shooting, 3 rebounds, one assist, and 2 blocks. Let’s see if he can build on that. It’s far too early to be passing final judgement on his future.
I suggest we compare notes again in about 40 games.
dxmanners says
We want Huertas.