“Chemistry is not like Malt-O-Meal. It’s not instant” – Lakers coach is optimistic about developing team chemistry as the season advances, Lakers recruiting new players delays the process
The LA Lakers had a rough start to the season, losing 123-109 to the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday. Although Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook looked phenomenal, the rest of the team struggled. And the Lakers were specifically ineffective from the 3-point line, where they shot just 10 for 40.
To coach Darvin Ham, the players need more than just one game to build chemistry. Considering that Patrick Beverley got in foul trouble early, the starting lineup didn't get much of a chance to play together in their debut game.
After the loss in his head-coaching debut, Ham said that he was incredibly thankful for the opportunity he has this season.
“Chemistry is not like Malt-O-Meal. It’s not instant. You don’t just throw it in the microwave. That is something that has to be baked over the course of time, and we’ll get there. The more we keep getting the reps in when we ... practice and shoot around, film work, we’ll get to the point where we know each other and it’s second nature the way we play basketball."
Check out a clip of Ham speaking to media members after the team's loss below.
The Lakers are on the hot seat this season
After falling short of the playoffs last season, the Lakers look to make a playoff run.
With the addition of Patrick Beverley, the hope is that the team will be able to improve its defense. The Lakers posted one of the league's worst defensive ratings last season. Beverley should help the team on defense while holding teammates accountable.
As fans remember, the team was often left staring at one another after missed defensive rotations last season. The lack of accountability continued as the season progressed, with fans noticing that players seemed to be incredibly inactive on defense.
The Lakers' place in the Western Conference
On the heels of an offseason that notably saw the Eastern Conference become tougher, the Western Conference feels more open than ever.
With All-Stars like Donovan Mitchell and Dejounte Murray now in the East, many feel the Utah Jazz and San Antonio Spurs have fallen out of playoff contention.
This creates an opportunity for teams like the Lakers to step up and make a run. It seems as though the Warriors, Suns, Grizzlies, Nuggets, Mavericks and Clippers are the only teams who seem to be locks for the playoffs.
Do you think the Lakers will be able to put things together and make a run at the NBA Finals? Or will the team come up short in LeBron James' 20th season? Give us your early predictions for the Lakers season in the comments section below.