“Lakers’ Cam Reddish Absent in Hornets Matchup Due to Groin Injury”

January 2, 2024Last Updated: January 2, 2024

Starting wing Cam Reddish was sidelined for the Lakers’ home game against the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday night due to discomfort in his left groin. This issue was first noted on the team’s injury report before Monday’s Christmas Day loss to the Boston Celtics, where Reddish played 18 minutes, contributing five points.

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Notably, this game marked the fewest minutes he has played since exiting the November 21 victory over the Utah Jazz due to a groin injury after just five minutes on the court.

Rui Hachimura, stepping into the starting lineup for the fourth time this season, joined LeBron James, Taurean Prince, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Anthony Davis in Reddish’s absence. Coach Darvin Ham continued prioritizing size and switchability with the starting unit, a strategy initiated by replacing D’Angelo Russell with Vanderbilt ahead of last Saturday’s win against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Emphasizing defense as the team’s foundation and identity, Ham highlighted the need to avoid self-inflicted mistakes. The Lakers, traditionally using a drop defensive coverage, have incorporated more ball screen switches since adopting larger starting lineups. The outcomes have varied, with Wednesday being the first practice session since the lineup adjustment.

Ham acknowledged the importance of game experience in refining strategies, recognizing the need to integrate new elements into the team’s playbook during live game minutes. The ability to switch, particularly with long, athletic wings alongside Anthony Davis, has been a focal point, allowing the team to make adjustments based on the personnel on the floor.

In discussing the team’s approach, Ham stressed the balance between working on improvements during games and striving to win. The experimentation with defensive strategies provides valuable footage for analysis, aiding in continuous refinement and integration into the team’s overall defensive approach.