The Los Angeles Lakers were desperate for a win against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Saturday night, as they were in the middle of a four-game losing streak.
The Lakers defeated the Thunder 129-120 to end their disappointing losing streak. The Thunder entered the game as the second seed in the Western Conference.
LeBron James was the game’s star, scoring a career-high 40 points, but Jarred Vanderbilt’s starting lineup substitution in place of D’Angelo Russell was the key revelWhen asked about being benched, Russell answered with 15 points and declared, “Obviously we switched the lineup and the result was a win, so for me, that’s all that matters.” After the game, Russell said, “I only care about winning.” Just figuring out how to contribute to the outcome and add enthusiasm each time I’m on the court. Beginning is a monster unto itself. In addition to starting units and the scouting report, there are numerous other opponents you must contend with. As a reserve, you have to pick up where the starters left off in terms of matchups and other things, so you have to think of ways to gain an advantage when you enter the game later on.ation. Russell had been having a lot of trouble lately, so head coach Darvin Ham decided to take him off the benThe fact that Los Angeles had an exceptional shooting night helped them defeat Oklahoma City, but the new starting lineup has some merit because it offers more defensive flexibility. Russell can face opposing bench units in the interim, where he has a little more leeway offensively.
Even though it’s only been one game, Russell and the Lakers appear to be benefiting from the decision to bench him. With Los Angeles hosting the Boston Celtics on Christmas Day, hopefully it keeps working.ch.
