This week was an especially tough one for the Lakers. After getting an impressive road win in Portland, the team lost their next three games, giving up an average of 136 points.
With Mike D’Antoni having a reputation for not emphasizing defense, he has had to endure a number of questions about why the Lakers have struggled so mightily recently.
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D’Antoni spoke to reporters today, and according to Time Warner Cable Sportsnet, gave a few insights into why he believes the team can’t stop anybody:
DANTON on defense: missing Blake, Bazemore and Brooks lack of familiarity factors #Lakers
— TWC SportsNet (@TWCSportsNet) March 8, 2014
There is no denying that Steve Blake was one of the better defenders on the Lakers. His toughness and attitude on that end also picked up the rest of the Lakers’ energy on defense.
It is also true that when bringing in new players to a system, it takes some time for them to adjust to the specifics, which can lead to miscommunication and breakdowns.
D’Antoni also defended his defensive schemes and principles, as reported by TWC Sportsnet:
D'Antoni also says "being gritty and getting into people. Our schemes are like 90 % of the league" #Lakers
— TWC SportsNet (@TWCSportsNet) March 8, 2014
If the schemes aren’t the issue, as D’Antoni claims, then the blame would seem to fall on the players for failing to execute.
There is enough blame to go around in the case of the Lakers’ miserable defense. One thing is for sure, it needs to improve soon, otherwise the losing atmosphere around this team won’t be changing.
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