Lakers tip-off vs. Portland in less than an hour. Here’s my thoughts on game 2: https://t.co/2SFfIPUs08
— Darius Soriano (@forumbluegold) August 21, 2020
On this same note, it’s nearly time for Vogel to make a starting lineup change. In fact, some would convincingly argue that time has passed. In last year’s Finals, Nick Nurse decided he was going to replace Danny Green in the starting lineup in each 2nd half with Fred VanVleet. FVV was his best primary defender on Steph Curry and his offensive shot creation was valuable against a switching Warriors defense. That move paid off wonderfully and Nurse rode VanVleet to heavy minutes in each of the final 5 games to help win a championship.
Vogel is likely facing a similar decision with one of KCP, JaVale, or both. Caruso is the Lakers best primary defender vs. Dame while Kuzma is a more versatile defender whose shot-making and floor spacing can help open the floor for Bron and Davis. Both Caruso and Kuz played heavy minutes in game 1, but more minutes with Bron and AD would be beneficial to the Lakers. Vogel would be wise to keep a very close eye on how his starters perform and be ready to make a change. It’s hard to continue to dig yourself out of the hole in a playoff.
Excellent points by a usually conservative Darius Soriano. The jury lining up to convict Vogel. If Lakers get off to slow start tonight, win or lose, Vogel MUST make changes to the starting lineup.
Listen, I completely understand why Frank does not want to make changes. He’s worried Green, KCP, or McGee will lose confidence completely if he benches them and he doesn’t want to deplete his roster by doing that. Better to cut their minutes than not start them.
Only problem is that they’re all three pressing trying to keep their starting jobs and that’s hurting the team. Bench them but still give them a chance to play off the bench with less pressre and they may surprise him. Team has to get off to strong start today so Frank better have some changes in how they’re going to play because something has to be different if the players are the same if you want a different result.
Excellent write up, Darius. You made cogent arguments related to Vogel’s reluctance to change the starting lineup. He doesn’t want to totally crush McGee’s, Green’s, or KCP’s confidence by benching them. Easier to cut their minutes. He better have them on a short leash tonight.