Battle of L.A.: Lakers Adjust Post-Luka Trade against Clippers
Lakers vs. Clippers Preview: Adjustments After the Luka Dončić Trade
The Los Angeles Lakers take on the Los Angeles Clippers tonight in the Battle of LA. The Lakers are looking to bounce back from their 116-102 loss on January 19th.
Rebounding was a key issue in that game, as the Clippers dominated the offensive glass 11-5, leading to extra possessions and second-chance points.
A New Look Lakers Team
The Lakers’ roster has changed significantly since their last matchup following the Luka Dončić trade. Anthony Davis is now a Dallas Maverick, forcing the Lakers to adjust their frontcourt rotation. Dorian Finney-Smith is active, while LeBron James and Gabe Vincent are probable.
ROUND ✌️ OF THE BATTLE OF LA 😈
A win would give the Lakers a 2-game lead over the Clippers in the standings 👀 pic.twitter.com/BbEvj0xquw
— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) February 4, 2025
Small-Ball Adjustments & Rebounding Concerns
With the Lakers running more small-ball lineups, expect to see Rui Hachimura at the five in certain stretches. That makes rebounding even more critical, especially against a Clippers team that thrives on second-chance points.
LeBron will need to crash the boards, and Jaxson Hayes must prioritize boxing out. At times, he struggles with this, leading to costly offensive rebounds for opponents.
Hayes has been solid in his increased role, averaging 7.4 rebounds, 6.4 points, and one assist per game. He’s also had only one game as a starter with a negative plus-minus, showing that he generally holds his own when given minutes.
However, if he’s going to be the Lakers’ primary big for now, he has to be more consistent in controlling the glass.
Help Could Be on the Way
The good news for Hayes? He might not be the lone center on the roster for much longer. With the trade deadline on Thursday, February 6th, the Lakers are actively looking to address the void at center.
Rob Pelinka made that clear during Luka Dončić’s introductory press conference, saying, “We know that our roster has continued work to do to become complete. We know we have a need for a big.” While the market isn’t overflowing with options, it’s clear the Lakers are trying to find frontcourt reinforcements.
Can the Lakers Pull Off Another Upset?
The Clippers are coming off a surprising loss to the Raptors, a game they were favored to win. Meanwhile, the Lakers have pulled off multiple upsets this season, proving they can rise to the occasion. If they can hold their own on the glass and limit extra possessions, they just might steal this one.
