The Los Angeles Lakers implemented a new offensive system before their game against the Memphis Grizzlies, and the team’s lack of familiarity with the scheme was evident Friday night. The Lakers put on a lackluster performance in front of the Staples Center crowd and there just was nothing the team could do right.
Los Angeles has now lost eight games in a row and their most recent setback came after a 112-95 loss on Friday. Although Kobe Bryant did not play against the Grizzlies, there was very little he could have done for the team on the night.
After the loss, second year guard Jordan Clarkson spoke about the changes made to the offensive and how it impacted the team on the court, via Shahan Ahmed of NBC Los Angeles:
Jordan Clarkson: "We put in a WHOLE new offense (yesterday & this morning)."
What changed?
"Everything"— Shahan Ahmed (@shahanLA) February 27, 2016
Clarkson struggled against the Grizzlies as he put up just eight points on 4-of-16 shooting. He finished the night with a plus/minus of -23 and it was certainly a night to forgot for him.
Nevertheless, the Lakers cannot rely solely on offensive changes if they want to make progress this season. Defense has always been an issue for this young team and if they would like to finish these next few months on a good note, improvements must be made on that end of the court.
The Grizzlies shot over 50 percent from the field and they had six players in double digits, with all but one player who entered the game having scored. Los Angeles is clearly going to miss the playoffs for yet another season, so the main priority will be to develop the young players.
Looking towards the future, the fate of the franchise will be dictated by Clarkson, Julius Randle and D’Angelo Russell.