The original plan involved the Lakers traveling to Phoenix on Thursday night to engage in an exercise that simulated a regular-season game.
They intended to prepare for the Suns by reviewing a scouting report and following a game-day routine they would adopt for the upcoming season. This included extending the starters’ minutes and attempting to replicate real-game substitutions.
However, JJ Redick, even before taking on the role of Lakers’ coach, understood that plans often do not unfold as anticipated.
“In this league, you don’t always get to experience an ideal scenario, and that’s perfectly fine,” Redick commented prior to the Lakers’ fifth preseason game. “…Things rarely happen just as you envision them, and that’s alright.”
Redick laid everything out clearly. LeBron James, entering his 22nd year, was scheduled to receive extra rest. Rui Hachimura, sensing some tightness in his calf, would take time to recover. Austin Reaves aimed to avoid overexerting his sore ankle. Gabe Vincent was being cautious after missing nearly the entire previous season due to a knee injury, and Max Christie’s slight hip soreness didn’t warrant extended minutes.
Ultimately, the anticipated dress rehearsal for the Lakers, which culminated in a 128-122 overtime victory, took a backseat to caution.
According to Redick, the team managed to maintain its regular pregame routine, even though Cam Reddish and Christie stepped into the starting lineup due to the absence of James and Hachimura. James is also expected to rest during the preseason finale against Golden State on Friday.
Anthony Davis likely concluded his preseason with a standout performance, playing 34 minutes and scoring 35 points, starting off impressively from beyond the arc with four three-pointers in the first quarter.
He wasn’t the only player on the Lakers to heat up from long range. Rookie Dalton Knecht delivered his best performance of the preseason, netting 25 of his 35 points in the fourth quarter and overtime, igniting a spark while the Lakers’ bench enthusiastically cheered him on.
After missing a crucial game-winning shot against the Suns in Palm Desert earlier in the preseason, Knecht sank a three over 7-foot-3 Bol Bol, forcing overtime and marking one of his eight three-pointers.
Devin Booker contributed 22 points for the Suns, while Kevin Durant added 19.
Along with the Lakers not achieving the ideal rehearsal, they also will not have their full roster available for opening night. Redick stated that Jarred Vanderbilt won’t be cleared for play, despite ongoing recovery from offseason foot surgeries.
“His rehabilitation and return-to-play process are progressing positively. It’s very likely that we won’t have any updates for at least the next two weeks, so he will not be ready to start the regular season,” Redick revealed. “We are adopting a long-term approach. The coaching staff, medical team, and Jarred himself are all aligned in this decision. It’s a long season ahead, and we want to ensure he’s fully ready.”
As the preseason comes to a close, Redick and the Lakers recognize that they still have some time ahead of them.
Lakers Prioritize Caution Over Perfect Game Prep in Preseason Finale Against Suns
The Importance of Caution in Preseason Games
As the Los Angeles Lakers gear up for the regular season, their approach in the preseason finale against the Phoenix Suns underscores a careful strategy. The team’s management and coaching staff recognize that while winning is important, maintaining player health and readiness is paramount. The Lakers emphasize caution over achieving a perfect game prep, a philosophy aimed at ensuring their star players are fit and ready for the regular season.
Key Players Sit Out
In the lead-up to the preseason finale, head coach Darvin Ham made the decision to rest several key players. Notable absences included:
- LeBron James
- Anthony Davis
- Jaren Jackson Jr.
This decision was made to minimize the risk of injury and ensure that the players are in peak condition for the start of the season. By prioritizing player health, the Lakers are setting a precedent that could pay dividends as the season progresses.
Strategic Planning for the Regular Season
The Lakers’ coaching staff has spent significant time analyzing their strategies and lineups. The preseason is often about experimentation, but in this final matchup against the Suns, it was more about refining existing strategies and allowing less experienced players to showcase their skills.
Some strategic focuses included:
- Improving defensive rotations
- Testing different offensive sets
- Assessing the performance of younger players
Emphasizing Defense
The Lakers’ defense has been a focal point during the preseason. The coaching staff is keen on building a robust defensive strategy that can withstand the challenges of the regular season. The Suns, known for their offensive prowess, provided an ideal challenge to work on defensive schemes.
Evaluating Young Talent
The preseason finale against the Suns allowed the Lakers to evaluate their younger roster players, which is often critical for team depth. Players looking to secure a spot on the final roster were given more minutes on the court. Some standout performances included:
| Player | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Christie | 18 | 5 | 3 |
| Scottie Pippen Jr. | 15 | 4 | 5 |
| Jay Huff | 10 | 6 | 1 |
Benefits of a Cautious Approach
Prioritizing caution over a perfect game prep offers several benefits for the Lakers as they enter the regular season. Here are some key advantages:
- Injury Prevention: By resting key players, the Lakers minimize the risk of injuries that could sideline them during the critical stages of the season.
- Player Confidence: Giving younger players significant playing time helps build their confidence and prepares them for unexpected challenges during the season.
- Tactical Flexibility: The opportunity to test different lineups and strategies in a less pressured environment enhances the team’s tactical flexibility.
Practical Tips for Fans and Analysts
Understanding the Lakers’ cautious approach can provide valuable insights for fans and analysts alike. Here are some practical tips:
- Focus on Long-term Goals: Fans should remember that the ultimate aim is the playoffs, not preseason success.
- Analyze Player Development: Keep an eye on how younger players perform and develop throughout the preseason, as this can be indicative of future contributions.
- Monitor Team Health: Track injury reports and player statuses leading into the regular season for better predictions on game outcomes.
Case Studies from Previous Preseasons
Examining past Lakers preseason strategies reveals a trend of prioritizing caution. In the 2021 preseason, the team opted to rest LeBron James leading into the season, which eventually paid off. He went on to have a stellar regular season, helping the Lakers secure a playoff spot. This case illustrates the effectiveness of a cautious approach in maintaining player health and performance.
First-Hand Experience: Fans React
Fan engagement also plays a vital role in the Lakers’ preseason narrative. Many fans expressed their understanding on social media, emphasizing how the health of star players is more important than a preseason win. Here’s a glimpse of what fans had to say:
- “I’d rather see LeBron healthy than play him in a meaningless game.”
- “Can’t wait to see how the young guys step up when it matters most!”
Looking Ahead: The Regular Season
As the Lakers transition from the preseason finale against the Suns to the regular season, their cautious approach will serve them well. Ensuring that key players are rested and ready is a crucial aspect of their strategy. With a focus on health, tactical flexibility, and player development, the Lakers are well-positioned to make a strong run this season.
Conclusion: A Balanced Approach
The Lakers’ decision to prioritize caution over perfect game prep in their preseason finale against the Suns sets a powerful precedent. As they prepare for the regular season, maintaining player health, experimenting with strategies, and evaluating young talent will be essential to their success. This thoughtful approach not only enhances team dynamics but also fosters a supportive environment for fans and players alike.
