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A Lakers Blog. Thoughts, reflections, and the odd rant on the Los Angeles Lakers and the NBA (even the Clippers).

Preview & Chat: Lakers vs. Bucks

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The Lakers are finally back in Los Angeles after an 8 game road trip that lasted nearly two weeks and saw them only grab a single win. The conclusion of the trip saw some key players doing well – Kobe, D’Angelo Russell — but saw the rest of the team mostly struggle, including Julius Randle’s last two games in his native Texas.

The last two games also saw Jordan Clarkson sit out due to a sprained ankle, but he is expected back tonight against the Bucks. Clarkson’s return to the starting lineup sends Russell back to the reserve ranks to captain the 2nd unit and reunite him with Randle. Here’s hoping some home cooking and getting to play together can allow Russell to keep his groove and Randle to rediscover his.

I am also interested in seeing whether Kobe can continue his good play. The last three games saw him turn somewhat of corner with his shooting efficiency while also marking a shift in his approach. A reduction of his three-point attempts and a more concerted effort to avoid the high difficulty contested shots in favor of making a few extra passes helped boost his efficiency. A reduction of minutes also played a role as Byron Scott found ways to keep his HOF guard’s minutes below 32 minutes.

I am interested in these things independent of opponent, but it should be noted the Bucks offer their own challenges. Coming off a win over the previously undefeated Warriors, the Bucks are surely riding a high. That game showed off their defensive versatility, ability to attack the rim offensively, and how Greg Monroe can anchor the paint as a post scorer. These are traits the Lakers are going to have to combat, especially what the Bucks can bring on the perimeter defensively and how they can get into the paint via straight line drives and on the offensive glass.

This type of opponent puts the onus on the Lakers’ wings to be productive on both ends of the floor. Offensively, they will be challenged by the Bucks’ length and ability to contest shots, but if they can get by the first wave, they should have some chances to finish at the rim — especially when Greg Monroe is protecting the paint. Clarkson’s drives out of the P&R will be a nice weapon, especially when he can draw the big man out with a delayed dribble and then look to turn the corner with a quick change of pace.

Defensively, the guards will also have to get back to defend against open court drives. The Bucks are not a great shooting team so they do not run to the three point line like so many other teams do in today’s NBA. Instead, they run for dunks, with Giannis Antetokounmpo being a key culprit who needs marking. The “Greek Freak” can cover the length of the floor in only a few dribbles and loves to explode to the rim every chance he gets. Picking him up early and making him slow down and change direction are important.

In the half court, this is one night where the Lakers penchant for digging down to guard against the paint can help them. As long as whoever is guarding Khris Middleton stays home, the rest of the team should make their Bucks’ counterpart beat them with jumpers rather than surrendering driving angles. Force Michael Carter-Williams, Antetokounmpo, Jabari Parker, etc prove they can hit the outside shot to win.

All in all, the Bucks are a better team, but this is a game the Lakers do have a chance in. The first game back from a long road trip is often difficult, but with the Lakers having several players who seem to thrive at Staples, maybe they can overcome that tonight.

Where you can watch: 7:30pm start time on TWC Sportsnet. Also listen on ESPN Radio Los Angeles 710AM.


Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. KevTheBold says

    Nice write up!

    I too believe that Randle will find himself, now that Russell will be beside him.

    I just hope that Huretas is not with those two, as though he’s fatally out of place Scott allows him to set the table.

    Ditto on Kobe, hoping that he’s had a realization, so can resist a relapse.

    I do also wonder why Scott is using Clarkson as a point guard, when it’s clearly not his forte.

    I understand that when playing with Kobe the SG spot is taken, yet I would keep Jordan with his contemporaries, Rand & Russ so they can gel and Clarkson can build on his strengths: and place Huertas with Kobe, where he can do likewise, be Kobe’s server.

  2. Robert says

    Kobe Alert: A stellar outing by the Kobes with 27, 7, 6, and 3 on 9-16 shooting. KB played in his 1301st game which moved him by Ray Allen for 15th all time. He is now with two games of Elvin for 14th. You know you are getting up there when the other guys on the list go by one name (Kobe fits in well). The 7 defensive rebounds vaulted Kobe into the top 50 as he pulled even with Michael Cage. He needs 7 more to catch Scottie Pippen for 49th. The Logo is 46 dimes away and KB needs 178 more points for 33k.

  3. Robert says

    Kev: “yet I would keep Jordan with his contemporaries” So are you saying Byron should put Clarkson on second team? That should go over well. Are you trying to get our coach fired? : ) Come on man – the coach and the team need your support. Try to enjoy Kobe and Byron and the season will be so much more enjoyable : )

  4. KevTheBold says

    Robert, I do support our team, and Kobe as well since he has begun doing the same.

    I just see want to see our core develop together.

    Placing the vets on one unit, and the kids on the other, would be so much more entertaining as well.

    Speaking of Bryon, did you notice how happy and relieved he looked at todays practice interview?

  6. LKK says

    Good start for the Lakers…Kobe with 10 in the 1st…when he hit his 2nd three from way deep, Swaggy had a look on his face like “WOW”!! Good stuff but Kobe played the entire quarter.

  10. Kbj says

    Really? I actually think they call a lot more fouls compared to the 80s and 90s. I know a lot of people who would say that they enjoyed watching basketball much more during those eras.

  11. LKK says

    Nice half…big difference in the Bucks
    without Greg Monroe. He’s really blossomed into a fine player. Saw several Lakers actually playing some D… Be still my heart!

    Thanks for the Kobe alert, Robert. Love ’em!

  12. LKK says

    Kbj….
    I may be in the minority on this but to me the Refs allow too much contact on shots. Back in the day, there were more hard fouls, but players were not allowed to contact jump shooters at all. That’s the big difference to me. Refs nowadays “manage” games. I understand they can’t call every foul but I see far too many games where uncalled fouls change the outcome. That’s what I mean by distortion. Of course this is just my opinion.

  16. Kbj says

    LKK, ah I see. I always assumed refs always “managed” games. Interesting that they didn’t back in the day…

  20. LKK says

    Kobe turning back the hands of time! So far a very impressive performance by our team against the squad that ended the GSW streak. Hope they close the deal.

  22. LKK says

    Interesting coaching dynamic tonight. Have often heard that Kidd helped run Scott out of NJ back when Byron was his coach.

  27. J C says

    At the game tonight.
    Really fun to get a win.
    The crowd absolutely adores Kobe.
    No complaints tonight!
    Yes maybe he could play longer but I think the idea of finishing his career is actually fueling the elevation of his game. Good for him.
    And I love watching D Russell.
    Such an entertaining talent.

    Milwaukee who??

  29. BigCitySid says

    -“The Lakers had a season-high 26 assists”. Amazing what can be achieved when their are less iso’s and the ball moves.

    – “I think this is the blueprint tonight of how we’ve got to play every game,” said Jordan Clarkson. So obvious, even this young player knows it.

  30. Fern says

    Where are the people that called DAR “a bust” and “Kendall Marshall”, and that the Lakers made a huge mistake not selecting Jahill “thug life 0 defense”Okafor? This is what this team needs, show some improvement, i know this team is better than that record, curious that some commenters went quiet today, oh yeah the Lakers won…

  31. Lou says

    I noticed this game scared away the commenters. I don’t think people are sure if there is actually room for hope. Some have gotten to the place where they don’t want the Lakers to win. They want to have complete disaster now, keep the draft pick, get rid of Scott and Jim. I am in that camp. But maybe it is time to decamp. DAR is showing signs he might be better than good. KB is showing signs of life. Clarkson is solid & Randle has real promise. The Lakers have played a ton of road games -17 away to 8 at home. As much as I would love to see Scott leave I would rather feel good when the Lakers win.

  32. Fulofunk says

    Great game to watch. When Kobe facilitates it is exciting…..and whattup with that sideline handshake on the 4-pointer? He is havin’ some fun….and it is fun to watch. Randle is having to work even harder than he has been and, even though I can understand playing him with DR, he should be starting, though LNjr is also quite a hustler…….did his dunk make ESPN highlite reel? DANG!

  34. AusPhil says

    Was at Staples last night. The atmosphere was electric, Kobe was feeling it, and the whole team played well.

    As a fan since ’82 and a guy who’s come over from Australia and seen Kobe play as a rookie in February 1997 and now in his last run, it’s been a hell of a ride. And that was a nice game to watch as my final “Kobe in person ” experience.

  35. bluehill says

    Just watched the highlights again. Best game so far, which I realize isn’t saying much, but the team is making progress. The passing and not settling for tough shots really stood out. Overall everyone seemed more comfortable in their execution. It’s tough to be patient but given how young the team is maybe they (players and coaches) are learning as quickly as they can.

  36. KevTheBold says

    Great game last night all around.

    I do believe we can let down our guard and believe in Kobe again.

    Finding his limit and his role, was simply another challenge for him to meet, and overcome. Kobe always finds a way, that’s why Kobe is Kobe!

    Randle was his double/double self again. He works well with Russell, but his shot selection could use some work.

    Russell is quietly proving that he is the chosen one, and I for one am so proud of him, and enthused that we snagged the perfect player for our Lakers, to bring us back into Showtime in style!

    If D’Angelo continues to grow like I expect, and learn all he can from the Black Momba, we don’t need the another pick; we only need to build around him.

    Go Lakers !!

  37. Anonymous says

    OK, the Lakers played well and Milwaukee was missing their big (Greg Monroe). Yes it was a nice win. But let’s not get carried away from the task at hand: Acquiring Ben Simmons.

    Phillly has 1 win. The Lakers have 4. However, New Orleans has only 6 and Brooklyn has 7. The Lakers are a short win streak away from blowing a chance to keep their pick.

    Here are the odds to land a top 3 pick based on:
    – Finishing with the worst record = 64.3%
    – Finishing with the 2nd worst = 55.8%
    – Finishing with the 3rd worst = 46.9%
    – Finishing with the 4th worst = 37.8%

    If we’re being honest with ourselves keeping the pick offers the best way out of this mess. We’re not going to attract and free agents of substance over the summer. Elites want to win now — we’re pretty far from that. Plus elites are close to 30 and by the time the kids are good enough the elite will be on the downside of their careers.

    We can’t trade for anyone really good unless we give up one or two kids. And what does that get you — likely an older vet who also has a shorter window to compete. Plus you’re still left with 3 or 4 rotational players and you need 10 of those to compete.

    No, the best way out of this is to implode this thing and pray to the basketball gods that we get Ben Simmons. He would give the Lakers a fourth really young foundational player.

    So, in summary:
    1. 205/16 season: Tank
    2. 2016 Draft: Pick Ben Simmons
    3. 2016/17 season: show improvement on the floor
    4. Draft 2017: lose pick
    5: 2017 Free Agency: Pick up an elite and add depth
    6. 2017/18 season: make the playoffs

  38. Anonymous says

    Here’s a scary thought: what if the Lakers end up playing like this in the 2nd half of the year? What if this really is in them, just waiting to break out, and the kids figure it all out and start playing together as a team?

  39. KO says

    Paul nice joke.

    But here is a thought. Joel Embre is looking like a monster these days. Word I hear is his workout are off the charts. Lakers biggest need is for a young center who can score and defend.

    Would anyone consider offering Philly the top 3 pick of the Draft(only 25% chance 1st pick for us)
    Which increases their chances of Simmions to over 65%, in exchange for Embre?

    Bird in the hand vs chance of nothing!

    Go look up current pictures of Embre, guy is a stud now.

  40. Vasheed says

    Well happy for a win. I argued very strenuously to draft Russell and I’m happy to see him shedding “the bust” label. Also of note the other guy I liked a lot was Porzingis but, I didn’t see that happening as we have Randle.

    I’m still not sold on Randle long term. I’ve liked many of the things he can do but one of my biggest fears was that he would disappear when faced by elite PFs who could post him up. So far that has been the case. I think he has feasted on lesser competition and will become even more efficient at that if he can develop a consistent jumper. He is very fortunate there are not that many PF’s today who really excel at posting guys up.

    I love the efficient game from Kobe. I still wish he shot fewer threes but, this time he at least hit them at a good clip.

  42. Anonymous says

    Here’s a scary thought: what if the Lakers end up playing like this in the 2nd half of the year? What if this really is in them, just waiting to break out, and the kids figure it all out and start playing together as a team?
    __

    Let’s not get carried away with one game. The Lakers kids trio will have nice games, like last evening. But make no mistake they aren’t ready to fly on their own.

    To win, it took a great game from Kobe, Hibbert’s best game of the year and 16 points from Williams and another 10 from Young. All of the above aren’t likely to be part of the Lakers future (Kobe certainly won’t).

  43. rr says

    I noticed this game scared away the commenters.

    —

    This thread is not much different than other game threads, and to the degree that you are right, I think people realize that it would be unseemly to complain about Byron, Kobe or the FO on a night when the team actually played well. People should enjoy it. Other losses will be coming our way soon enough.

    There are some who have actually stopped commenting, or reduced their comment volume significantly, and some of those are people who have been aggressively optimistic and/or actively defended the FO/bagged on FO criticism a lot. So if folks like Fern are going to actively call out people who were saying Russell was a bust, the other disappeared folks should be noted as well.

    As to the team: even a bad team has good nights and I ma glad the Lakers had one. I am glad Kobe is playing better, and I still support Russell over Okafor (and it appears that I may be wrong, and the conventional wisdom right, about Mudiay). I think it is very likely that the Lakers will finish with the second-worst record which means a 19.9% chance of getting the #1 pick, and as noted a 55% of keeping the pick.

  44. Kbj says

    If the players play good and the Lakers win, I’m fine with that. It’s not up to the players to tank. If they do, I would seriously question their commitment to the team and to winning. The F.O should step in and trade or sit the veterans (Young, Williams, Bass, possibly Hibbert) and play the young guys. If they still win..then whatever, at least we developed Brown, Black and the other guys.

  45. matt says

    As per the current collective bargaining agreement it is very hard to acquire a coveted free agents, in the last 2 years most of the best guys who were free agents did not move because of how the cba is set up, the lakers in the past were rhe big spenders of the league, now they can’t do that they have to follow the rules, I’m bringing this up because mostly I’m seeing postings that seem to think the lakers can sign whoever they want, save the f/o bashing for the media, management got their hands tied by the other owners who blackballed them in the cba.

  46. rr says

    Matt,

    I will give you some slack because you seem to be new here, but your arguments are the same ones FO defenders have been making since 2013, and they were weak then and are weaker now. The CBA has affected every team in the league, and of course one of those guys who moved was Dwight Howard. If you look at most posts, people are not saying that the Lakers can sign anyone they want; you are thinking of the one guy who engaged you and talked about signing Monroe and Bledsoe.

    Also, you don’t seem to get that your own argument, which is that they FO is wisely keeping the powder dry for the big-time FAs coming when Kobe’s salary is off the cap, is actually the one that depends on the idea that the Lakers can sign anyone they want.

    The FO is not entirely at fault here, and their recent draft picks are looking good. But they have made mistakes that have nothing to with the CBA, the fanbase, or the media.

  47. matt says

    Russell made some great passes and still shooting well, sacre can catch a pass unlike bass, lou and clarkson combo works better, randle is awesome but needs development still, note that randle did play well off the bench at kentucky, glad to see mwp out of rotation, kobe showing he’s comfortable in his role

  49. KevTheBold says

    I hear you Matt, the ‘Dwight might come back’ smack is ridiculous !

    Not only has he proven to be over-rated, and heart deficient, most Laker fans, myself included, can’t stand him.

    Did you notice his fake shake with Kobe?

  50. matt says

    Im kidding here but maybe Dwight can help us get our coach fired, actually i don’t like Dwight i remember before he came max Kellerman couldn’t stop talking about how the lakers needed him and i was like no way please save us the drama