Coaching is no easy task, as they would have to find ways to satisfy every player on the roster. While that is a difficult task, Los Angeles Lakers head coach Frank Vogel has been vocal about his style, and how he intends to use his players.
Recently, he stated that they will play with AD at the 5 often, which means that only one of DeAndre Jordan and Dwight Howard will feature in a game. With that system, it means the traditional centers will feature in only half of the Lakers games this season.
Although Vogel has been upfront with the players, it does not take away from the heart-wrenching feeling of not helping your team on the floor, especially when healthy. Vogel has started to implement his plan, and Howard was scheduled to miss the game.
The Lakers traveled to Sacramento to face the Kings, and Jordan was given the nod to feature. Dwight does everything to support his team, including cheer from the bench. But this time, he felt bad about missing the game.
According to Harrison Faigen of Silver Screen and Roll, Dwight felt “kind of down” when he was told he will not be playing against the Kings.
https://twitter.com/hmfaigen/status/1465915752645414913
“Dwight Howard tells @LakersReporter on the walk-off that Frank Vogel told him he wasn’t going to play tonight, and he was “kind of down.” But he says he stayed ready even though he wasn’t expecting to play, and was happy he was able to make an impact.”
Four minutes into the game, Frank pulled out DJ, replacing him with Dwight. Jordan did not seem happy about the decision as he was seen having an animated conversation with Vogel on the bench. DJ did not play for the rest of the game, perhaps due to punishment for lashing out after being substituted.
DeAndre Jordan and #Lakers head coach Frank Vogel were in a heated conversation earlier.
DJ didn't play in the 2nd half.pic.twitter.com/yHlCP8iTRh
— NBA Analysis Network (@HoopAnalysisNet) December 1, 2021
Howard got his chance and registered 12 points, 13 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks in 35 minutes. Despite trailing by 14 points late in the third quarter, the Lakers turned things around to get a 117-92 victory. It is worth noting that LeBron James was missing in action due to covid-19 health and safety protocols.
