The Lakers (23-23) commence their extensive six-game road trip in San Francisco against the Golden State Warriors (19-23) on Saturday evening, airing on ABC at 5:30 p.m.
Here are three key points to consider ahead of the game:
- Road Trippin’:
- The Lakers embark on their most extended road trip of the season, spanning six games over 10 days. With only one back-to-back (Monday vs. Rockets, Tuesday vs. Hawks), the trip begins with three games in four nights, covering over 7,000 miles. This challenging venture allows the Lakers to showcase resilience against opponents with varying season performances.
Road trip opponents:
- at Warriors
- at Rockets
- at Atlanta
- at Celtics
- at Knicks
- at Hornets
The Lakers, currently struggling on the road with a 6-15 record, aim to turn the tide and build momentum before the All-Star break.
- Vando Making an Impact:
- Jarred Vanderbilt, overcoming early-season challenges, is finding his stride. Dealing with bursitis in his left heel and a minutes restriction, Vanderbilt has recently showcased defensive prowess, contributing with blocks, steals, and disruptive plays.
Offensively, he’s settling into a defined role, scoring in double figures multiple times in the past four games, including a career-high 17 points against the Bulls.
- Jarred Vanderbilt, overcoming early-season challenges, is finding his stride. Dealing with bursitis in his left heel and a minutes restriction, Vanderbilt has recently showcased defensive prowess, contributing with blocks, steals, and disruptive plays.
Vanderbilt’s assertive style positions him as a valuable scoring threat within the team’s framework, potentially expanding his role alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
- Bigger Than Basketball:
- Despite a subpar season at four games under .500, the Warriors have faced real tragedy off the court. Assistant coach Dejan Milojević’s sudden passing after a heart attack has deeply impacted the team.
The Warriors mourned his loss, postponed games, and paid tribute to Milojević in their return to the court. While the Warriors navigate the remainder of the season, they do so with heavy hearts, honoring the memory of their beloved coach and basketball family member.
- Despite a subpar season at four games under .500, the Warriors have faced real tragedy off the court. Assistant coach Dejan Milojević’s sudden passing after a heart attack has deeply impacted the team.
