New Laker Acquisition is the Weakest Link Heading into the Playoffs
After suffering four consecutive losses, the Los Angeles Lakers have dropped to fifth place in the Western Conference. Injuries to key players, including LeBron James, have left head coach JJ Redick with a limited rotation. With a challenging schedule of away games against the Celtics, Nets, Bucks, and Nuggets, the team was unable to overcome the substantial absences.
Starting with a game against the Suns on Sunday, the Lakers now have a five-game homestand, expecting the returns of LeBron, Luka Doncic, and Jaxson Hayes.
While Hayes’ return may not seem crucial at first glance, it will significantly impact the Lakers, who have struggled since he was sidelined with a right knee contusion. This struggle has largely been due to his replacement, Alex Len, underperforming.
Alex Len’s Struggles Since Joining the Lakers
Len was placed in the starting lineup over the last three games, playing a total of 44 minutes. During this stretch, the Lakers lost by a combined 27 points. He scored four points on 2/6 shooting, failing to contribute effectively on either end of the court.
This issue has plagued the Lakers ever since Len was signed after the trade deadline. In his 12.1 minutes per game over seven appearances, Len has shot 36.4% from the field, averaging 1.1 points and 2.7 rebounds. He hasn’t visited the free-throw line once and has recorded just two blocks.
More concerning is the team’s defense with Len on the floor. According to Cleaning the Glass, the Lakers have allowed 133.8 points per 100 possessions during his minutes. This would be the worst defensive rating in NBA history for an entire season. For comparison, the Lakers give up 113.4 points per 100 possessions when Len is off the court.
While the Lakers don’t have many center options, it’s clear Len isn’t the answer, especially in the postseason. He should be removed from the playoff rotation due to his defensive struggles and lack of versatility. Redick may be better off using small-ball lineups with Jarred Vanderbilt, Dorian Finney-Smith, and Rui Hachimura at center, regardless of the opponent.