Since their final victory in the NBA Cup over the Pacers, we cannot say that the Lakers have managed to capitalize on it. Darvin Ham’s men have suffered 5 defeats in the last 6 meetings, including one against the Spurs and the Bulls.

It’s not great for LeBron James and his teammates, who may be in full force this Saturday to face the Thunder: another big name in the Western Conference.

A change in the Lakers’ 5 major in progress?

Anthony Davis also increased the pressure, indicating that a victory was mandatory against Oklahoma City. We imagine that the interior will be keen to shine, regardless of the starting lineup.

Indeed, according to Anthony F. Irwin, Ham is thinking of making a major change: removing D’Angelo Russell from the bench. The leader has been in difficulty for a very long time.

Hearing some whispers the Lakers are considering a change in the starting lineup. Subject to change obviously but from what I’m hearing, D’lo would sit and Vando would start.

— Anthony F. Irwin (@AnthonyIrwinLA)

December 23, 2023

“There are rumors that the Lakers are thinking about changing their starting lineup.

It could still change from what I hear, DLo could be on the bench while Vando (Jarred Vanderbilt) would start. »

With Bron running PG?

— Eugene Nayvelt (@EugeneNayvelt) December 23, 2023

A modification which remains surprising since Austin Reaves has already returned to the bench recently.

His performances have been much better since then, but associating him with Russell could again hamper him in the future.

What is certain is that DLo largely disappoints with his irregularity in the game. A trade before February would frankly not be a surprise at this level.

So LeBron as leader?

That’s not the direction we need to go in. That lineup will result in the worst offense in the league

— GOAT James👑🐐 (@BronToAD) December 23, 2023

This is not the direction we need to go. Such a lineup would be one of the worst offenses in the league.

Jarred Vanderbilt instead of D’Angelo Russell? This may not be the best idea, especially given the Lakers’ offense today.

Still, Darvin Ham is looking for solutions… before perhaps a major trade between now and the February deadline.