The Los Angeles Lakers have announced that Marcus Smart (right ankle soreness) and Rui Hachimura (right calf soreness) are out against the Detroit Pistons on Monday night while Maxi Kleber (lumbar back strain) is available.
This is a tough blow as both Smart and Hachimura have been two of the team’s most important role players throughout the season and replacing them will be no easy task.
Hachimura actually left the Lakers’ victory over the Orlando Magic on Saturday in the third quarter with the calf issue, so the team will definitely be careful with him as this is an injury they do not want to linger on too long. He has been the Lakers’ best scorer off the bench and one of the best 3-point shooters in the entire NBA.
Smart, on the other hand, has really grown as the Lakers’ tone setter on defense. He is the team’s primary point-of-attack defender and the energy and effort he brings every night has been crucial to their success. While his numbers don’t always stand out, his impact is immeasurable and he has regularly come up with huge plays on both ends of the court.
With two of JJ Redick’s most trusted players sitting out, Jake LaRavia would be the most likely choice to replace Smart in the starting lineup, primarily due to his defensive skills that will help to at least somewhat mitigate what the Lakers are losing with Smart out. Luke Kennard will also likely see more minutes and Redick could also turn to Jarred Vanderbilt whose defense, energy and attitude is similar to Smart’s and will be needed when facing a team like the Pistons who are known for their physicality and attitude.
Another player Redick could give a shot to is Kleber, who is returning after missing the last seven games with a lumbar back strain. Kleber hasn’t always been in the rotation, but when he is called on the big man has delivered more often than not. And with the Lakers down some key players, he could come right back and get some minutes as the Lakers are nearing the end of their six-game road trip.
Austin Reaves speaks to Lakers’ confidence during win streak
The Lakers are playing their best basketball of the season right now, winning nine straight games with most of those coming against playoff teams as well. And Austin Reaves recently discussed the team’s confidence being high and what has helped the team come together.
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