3. VERTICAL GRAVITY OFF LOBS AND DUNKS AT THE RIM
Lakers attempted to upgrade offense after winning their 17th championship by replacing traditional low post centers JaVale McGee and Dwight Howard with offensive centers Marc Gasol and Montrezl Harrell.https://t.co/ePkkGvhwug pic.twitter.com/DyQopvTAXw
— LakerTom (@LakerTom) September 7, 2021
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LakerTom says
I know the Lakers’ lack of vertical gravity from Gasol, Harrell, and Drummond were a major disappointment as all of the team’s bigs, including LeBron and AD, had far fewer dunks than during the championship run.
While part of that can be blamed on injuries, the truth is the Lakers missed the vertical gravity that Dwight and JaVale brought last season, as well as their rim protection. That’s why I reversed course and was in favor of bringing Dwight back, even though he did not have a great year with the Sixers.
At any rate, while vertical gravity is not as important as spacing gravity, it does help to have it available when teams pack the paint against LeBron, AD, and Russ. Also, having LeBron and AD playing the four and five instead of one or three and four will give LeBron and AD more opportunities for easy dunks off lobs.
Where do you rank the Lakers’ improved vertical gravity?
Jamie Sweet says
You reversed course alright. This one I agree 100%. I thought we should have brought Dwight back last season and am glad he’s here now. Don’t see the need for two guys like that, though, so am not in favor of bringing in DeAndre Jordan. Rather I’d keep Marc and if he chooses to retire, so be it. No need to burn money or a roster spot on Mr. Barricade. He’s not lob city material any more and is more injured than helpful at this stage of his career.
Guess we’re not “dumping” on Dwight anymore, lol
LakerTom says
I understand the versatility of keeping Marc but I also understand the redundancy and insurance aspects of having two bigs who can protect the rim. I think rim protection is critical with several guards who are not the perimeter defenders that KCP and Caruso were. In fact, I think with AD, Howard, and Jordan, the Lakers should have a shot blocker anchoring the defense for all 48 minutes per game. That’s why I think they want DeAndre instead of Marc.