At shootaround this morning, head coach Mike D’Antoni said his energy will be a deciding factor in whether or not he coaches in tonight’s home game against the Houston Rockets. According to Mark Medina of the L.A. Daily News, D’Antoni doesn’t want to be a “sideshow” or “take away the focus” of the game.
Mike D’Antoni said he’s “50-50” about coaching tonight against Houston. He’s planning to coach but all depends how his energy holds up
— Mark Medina (@MedinaLakersNBA) November 18, 2012
Previously, D’Antoni has said that he plans to coordinate his return with Steve Nash. However, after Steve Nash was evaluated Friday evening, it was determined that he would be out at least another week. According to Lakers reporter Mike Trudell, the Lakers will also start Darius Morris in place of Steve Blake for a third consecutive game. Blake is still recovering from a strained abdominal area.
Darius Morris will start at PG for a 3rd straight game. D’Antoni like his size, praised his 2nd half defensive pressure vs Suns.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) November 18, 2012
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Although D’Antoni has yet to coach a game from the sidelines, his volatile offensive mindset has already been put in place. The Lakers (4-5) will face the Houston Rockets (4-5), who have also been off to a rocky start this season. The Rockets’ youth and talent, especially with their recently acquired James Harden, should make this an exciting game. Tip-off is set for 6:30 PST.
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Check out what Kobe had to say post-game about his own statue outside of Staples Center!
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