Darvin Ham, head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers, altered the starting lineup once more for Monday night’s contest against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The addition of D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and Taurean Prince to the lineup reinstated the team’s original starting lineup, which also included Anthony Davis and LeBron James.

Monday’s outcome was favorable, as the Lakers defeated the Thunder 112-105 to snap a two-game losing streak. Russell and Reaves performed admirably in the presence of Davis and James, bolstering the оffensive prowess of the starting lineup while the reserves contributed size and defense.

However, Davis is unconcerned with the оffensive aspect of the ball when it comes to the starting lineup. He believes that defense is the key to success for this group.

“I am confident that we can score,” Davis stated. “I, Bron, DLo, AR, and TP, who possesses a shooting ability.” In my opinion, our only concern is on the defensive end. By applying our defensive style as we did tonight against all opponents, we will position ourselves to secure victories in basketball contests.

“Therefore, I believe the defense is primary, and we base our strategy on that.” “Whether it’s during transition or when I’m playing, whether it’s through Bron, AR, or whoever else, I believe the defense is what will set us apart and ensure we have more victories than defeats.”

The Lakers have historically relied heavily on defense, given their propensity for fasting and executing in transition. However, that becomes unattainable in the absence of pauses. The paucity of stature in this lineup is an additional concern, particularly with regard to its potential impact on rebounding.

Too many оffensive rebounds and second-chance points have cost the Lakers many games, and this group places a tremendous amount of burden on the other members to assist Davis on the glass. He believes, however, that communication and endeavor are increasing in that regard.

Davis further stated, “Austin and TP are constantly yelling at us to rebound and assist.” “Therefore, particularly with that starting unit, we require a rebound when those other players enter the game; it gives us more size.” While there have been fluctuations in that regard, it is merely a matter of effort.

“However, me𝚗 discuss it, specifically how we need to recoup. Not to belaborate, but in the event that I request assistance with a shot block or similar matters, you must immediately return to your original focus and box out. Thus, communication is constant, but I believe we’re getting better at it.”

The Lakers possess an understanding of their challenges and must now concentrate on improving their performance and delivering crucial shots. While Davis will assume a leadership role in terms of defense and rebounding, the Lakers’ success hinges on the contributions of the entire group.

Anthony Davis: His health makes it “difficult” to evaluate the Lakers at the midpoint.

At the 20-21 mark of the season’s midpoint, the Lakers are not in the desired position. Davis acknowledges that the team’s health concerns make it difficult to evaluate the team’s current standing; however, the big man continues to have faith in the team’s locker room.

“It’s difficult because we haven’t been in peak health,” Davis said following the Thunder’s victory on Monday. “This year, we’ve been in a number of games, but we’ve also suffered a lot of injuries, which is always challenging. Whenever we have been in perfect health, we have performed exceptionally well in basketball. So now that we are aware of our potential, I believe all that remаins is to achieve optimal health.

“However, I appreciate our crew. Both what we are doing and what we did tonight are enjoyable. “We must proceed in that direction.”