Like this much more than just clearing a side for AD to post up. Kuzma throws the post entry pass, that flows into "split cut" action. Tough cover with LeBron as the screener and no rim protection. pic.twitter.com/XTT7RVZc8m
— Raj C. (@RajChipalu) August 29, 2020
Great alternative to just clearing the side to isolate AD
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August 29, 2020 3 Comments
Great video, UR. This is exactly the kind of play the Lakers need to run more of instead of just clearing the side for AD to isolate. Gives LeBron an easy roll to the rim with no shot blocker in the paint. Thanks for posting this.
I don’t think anyone here will accuse Frank Vogel of running a confusing or difficult to master offense. He’s a defense-first coach and everything about the Lakers this season confirms that.
One of the bigger disappointments during this second season was the lack of anything new added to the offense. if anything, it looked less dynamic than ever for a stretch there. It really is have player A bring up the ball, dish it to LeBron or AD, have them make a play 9 times out of 10.
But that’s also not to say that it doesn’t work. This season it does. Mainly because LeBron James continues to play at a high level into his mid-30’s and AD has been fairly healthy all season. Where it looks awful is when both sit.
I don’t disagree that giving the ball to LeBron or AD and clearing out can work but the problem is it leaves the other 4 players standing around, which makes it easier to defend.
Any good basketball coach will tell you that involving the other players with off ball picks and motion will lead to more opportunities and make the offense harder to defend.
We’re not talking about rocket science here. We’re talking about the need to have the coaching staff do a better job than they’re doing creating more off ball action when they iso LeBron or AD. It would make LeBron and AD even more effective and keep the rest of the team engaged.
I’m sure you’ve experienced the same thing in rec basketball or even on the asphalt. Nobody likes just standing around while one player plays one-on-one. Same is true in the pros. And, as you yourself pointed out, offense is not Frank’s strong suit.
We need an offensive minded coach like Alvin Gentry next season. Our lack of creativity on offense could come back to haunt us before these playoffs are over. We need more simple adjustments like this play as we advance in the playoffs.