LeBron, Lakers learn by playing
Lessons to take away from preseason debut
For all the fanfare surrounding LeBron James’ first preseason game with the Lakers, remember it was just that: a preseason game.
James had nine points on 2-for-6 shooting, three rebounds and three assists in 15 minutes, all in the first half, as the Lakers lost 124-107 Sunday to Denver, an improving team that will push for a playoff spot this season.
While the Lakers showed glimpses of what they might be able to become, they also have a long way to go offensively and defensively as they try to figure out how to incorporate James with a mix of young talent and established veterans. Takeaways from the game:
❚ Watch the James-Ingram connection: One of the key developments for the Lakers will be the James-Brandon Ingram combination. James believes in Ingram’s ability, and if the preseason opener is any indication, James will look for Ingram often on offense.
James found Ingram early in the first quarter for two baskets, both with Ingram cutting to the basket and James feeding him the ball in good scoring positions. If Ingram is willing to work hard and move without the ball, he will have those easy scoring opportunities with James’ court vision and passing skills.
❚ Ceding some control of the basketball: James loves to play with the ball in his hands where he can be a playmaker for himself or his teammates. But the Lakers have multiple ballhandlers: Ingram, Rajon Rondo, Lonzo Ball, Josh Hart, Lance Stephenson.
There were times when Rondo or Ingram brought the ball down the court and initiated the offense with James setting up in in the low/mid-post posi- tion. The idea that he’ll become more of a post player later in his career is expected, and the Lakers give him a chance to dominate opponents near the basket.
James will have plenty of opportunities on the perimeter as the main ballhandler. This roster gives him the freedom to do that less when he chooses.
❚ No Lonzo but there was Rondo:
Ball, who is recovering from offseason surgery, didn’t play, and Rondo got the start. While Rondo and Ball don’t play the exact same style, they are pass-first point guards and will form a strong 1-2 punch at that spot.
Rondo had 11 assists against Denver, and when he’s sharing time with Ball and James, the Lakers will be one of best passing teams in the league.
❚ Versatile lineups: Coach Luke Walton has promoted the Lakers’ depth, and James’ ability to play different positions in big and small lineups gives them chances to create mismatches.
Los Angeles started James, Rondo, Ingram, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and JaVale McGee (who should get easy baskets at the rim with the focus on others). Later in the first half, Walton unveiled this small-ball lineup: James, Ingram, Hart, Stephenson and Kyle Kuzma.
Walton will tinker with lineups until he finds the combinations he wants to roll with on a regular basis.
❚ Lakers want to run: Remember Magic Johnson’s “Showtime” Lakers that loved to run the fast break? These Lakers aren’t going to re-create that, but they do want to push the pace when possible. James loves to get the rebound and run, and he’s adept at throwing long outlet passes. With young guys such as Ball, Ingram, Kuzma and Hart plus James, the Lakers showed they are willing to run after an opponent’s made or missed shot.