JJ Redick says Lakers don’t have plan for back-to-backs with LeBron James, Anthony Davis
In a change from previous seasons, the Lakers are heading into the season without a predetermined plan for LeBron James and Anthony Davis when it comes to back-to-backs.
In recent seasons, the Lakers’ approach to back-to-backs has brought much consternation to fans.
Two seasons ago, they sat Anthony Davis for back-to-backs down the stretch of the regular season despite being in the thick of the play-in race. Last year, while there wasn’t as much of a plan, it was rare if both AD and LeBron James played on both games of a back-to-back.
Heading into this year, though, it appears the Lakers aren’t approaching things with the same mindset as in the past. The team will have its first back-to-back of the season on Friday and Saturday against the Suns and Kings, respectively, offering the first look at the Lakers’ approach.
At practice on Thursday, head coach JJ Redick was asked if the team knew how they would handle back-to-backs. For now, their approach is to play it by ear.
“It’s all real time,” Redick said. “How do they feel waking up Saturday morning [will determine our approach].”
I would say it’d be fair to look at this quote with a healthy bit of skepticism. I doubt the team is heading into this situation completely blind.
However, the team has also reshaped the medical staff this offseason, too. The Lakers hired Dr. Vanessa Brooks from the Thunder as the head athletic trainer and senior physical therapist. Her approach could be different than the last medical staff.
A lot of this will also depend on how the team is doing as well. It’s easier to rest guys on the second night of a back-to-back if you’re in fifth position in the Western Conference than it is if you’re outside the play-in.
Still, this will be something to monitor going forward this season. And even more reason to hope for the Lakers to win games.
You can follow Jacob on Twitter at @JacobRude.