“It’s not Lakers business and we’re all focused on Lakers business. It’s an unfortunate situation, but I really don’t have an opinion on it,” Lakers coach Darvin Ham says.
The Lakers would like that very much.As in, defeat the Minnesota Timberwolves in their play-in game Tuesday night at Crypto.com Arena and advance to the first round of the Western Conference playoffs as the seventh-seeded team, facing the second-seeded Grizzlies in a best-of-seven series that would begin this weekend in Memphis. No need for a second play-in game Friday.
In 2020-21, the Lakers won one and were done with it, edging the Golden State Warriors and advancing to the first round of the playoffs as the seventh-seeded team before falling to the Phoenix Suns. In 2021-22, the Timberwolves defeated the Clippers in a play-in game and then moved on as the No. 7 seed.
The Lakers had only one day to prepare to face Minnesota, and their focus on the task at hand was evident after their practice and video session Monday at their training facility. They spoke at length about improving their defensive play and the unique nature of the play-in tournament.
“I don’t think it’s a distraction,” Lakers coach Darvin Ham said. “It’s not Lakers business and we’re all focused on Lakers business. It’s an unfortunate situation, but I really don’t have an opinion on it. We’re just focused on trying to be the best version of ourselves and what we’ve got to do. It’s not about who we’re playing. It’s about how we play and putting our best foot forward.”
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