Darvin Ham outlined what he and the coaches discussed ahead of the Los Angeles Lakers’ pivotal Game 6 against the Memphis Grizzlies.
Per The Athletic’s Jovan Buha, “Darvin Ham said that a big chunk of his coaching meeting today was focused on the team’s rotation and figuring out better ways to maximize the bench units.”
Darvin Ham said that a big chunk of his coaching meeting today was focused on the team’s rotation and figuring out better ways to maximize the bench units.
— Jovan Buha (@jovanbuha) April 28, 2023
It does make sense considering the bigger issue for LA has been the absence of offensive firepower and rim protection in the absence of Anthony Davis. The non-AD minutes have been tough for the Lakers, and while they may have stopped the bleeding by inserting Wenyen Gabriel, it is not a long-term solution, even if the side puts away the Grizzlies in the next game.
In all probability, the new approach would be to continue with Gabriel as the big man and use AD in frequent bursts, though it will see the center play significant time on the floor — something he has said he will do if the situation demands it.
Chances are that LA will even field Mo Bamba or bring in an experienced vet in Tristan Thompson. It’s a wait-and-watch scenario until Friday.
Darvin Ham Oozed Optimism Despite The Lakers’ Game 5 Blowout Loss
After leading the series 3-1, the Lakers were expected to coast to a 4-1 line but were halted in their tracks by the Grizzlies, who put up quite the fight. This resulted in a 116-99 trouncing, but Ham was unfazed.
“We were told we won’t be here in the first place. So it’s no pressure. Just basketball.”
Darvin Ham: “We were told we won’t be here in the first place. So it’s no pressure. Just basketball.”
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) April 27, 2023
The Lakers will look to bounce back and close the series out in Game 6. They retain a 3-2 lead against Memphis and will be keen to ensure that there won’t be a Game 7, which Desmond Bane vowed there would be.
Related: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Memphis Grizzlies Expected Lineups, Predictions, Injuries
It remains to be seen if LA and Ham can come up with the right changes and put the screws on the Grizzlies. They are firm favorites to do just that at the moment.
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