The Los Angeles Lakers secured their fourth consecutive win against the Utah Jazz, but faced a setback as a crucial player got injured. Deandre Ayton is sidelined for Tuesday’s game against the Los Angeles Clippers due to a knee contusion, with no clear timeline for his return. This absence leaves the Lakers without a solid backup center. The team may need to revert to a small-ball lineup, as Jackson Hayes isn’t ready to fill the starting center role effectively.
Los Angeles Lakers head coach J.J. Redick should consider starting LeBron James as a small-ball center and Marcus Smart as a replacement for Ayton. During their recent 108-106 victory over the Jazz, James showcased his offensive prowess and contributed significantly in rebounds when the Lakers shifted to a small lineup late in the first half. James previously started as a center in December 2021, leading the Lakers to a win over the Houston Rockets with an impressive triple-double performance (32 points, 11 rebounds, 11 assists), ending the team’s five-game losing skid. Utilizing a small-ball lineup with James might be the key for the Lakers to continue their success without Ayton.
In that game against the Jazz, James recorded 17 points, six rebounds, and eight assists over 34 minutes, although his shooting from the field and beyond the arc was less effective. He excelled more when deployed as a small-ball center, focusing on low-post play and rebounding rather than his usual perimeter role. If the Lakers want to minimize James taking difficult shots and capitalize on his size near the basket, the small-ball center position could be ideal. Due to James’ versatility, the Lakers may explore experimenting with him in the center position more frequently moving forward.
Fan Take: This development highlights LeBron James’ unique ability to adapt and impact the game in multiple roles, demonstrating why he remains one of basketball’s most valuable players. The Lakers’ potential shift to a small-ball lineup centered around LeBron could redefine traditional team strategies and influence the sport’s evolving style of play.
