Day four of Lakers training camp commenced today. There was no scrimmage but there was a controlled scrimmage in which LeBron James and Anthony Davis sat out for. They did, however, participate in everything else. Jared Dudley out yet again with soreness.
Jared Dudley was the only player (aside from Kyle Kuzma) that didn’t practice today, said Vogel, as he’s “managing some soreness.” Coach added that “he’ll be fine.” With Kuzma out at least until the team returns from China, Dudley could slot into the backup 4 spot.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) October 1, 2019
What were other topics to note today? We have you covered.
Bradley continues to impress
Avery Bradley continued to receive rave reviews. One of the biggest differences between last season and this season could have been the injuries and fitness issues, as noted by Mike Trudell and Chris Geeter.
Avery Bradley said the biggest difference between last season and this was a groin injury that kept him from doing much last offseason. He dropped a bunch of weight since then and feels good, and his teammates/coaches have noticed.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) October 1, 2019
Bradley also reiterated that over the past year he lost 40 pounds ….. all of you 6 Clipper fans that got mad at me and went after me after that tweet a month ago I accept your apologies …. 40 pounds for a pro athlete over a long period of time is not a big deal
— Chris Geeter McGee (@geeter3) October 1, 2019
Bradley had a defensive reputation earlier in his career which tapered off during his time with Detroit and the Clippers. Having a defensive player who can check guards can be vital especially in a conference with Steph Curry, Damian Lillard, and Russell Westbrook.
Bradley spoke about playing with Pierce and Garnett on the Celtics. He plans on using that experience to play alongside James and Davis as he was used a lot as a cutter. He also has a use as a three-point shooter as well, shooting 37.9% from beyond the arc.
There have been glowing praise about both Bradley and Rajon Rondo throughout camp. I prefer the former if I had the choice, but with the first preseason games just days away, anything can happen.
The Dwight stuff
From our friend, Harrison Faigen: Frank Vogel had some choice words about Dwight Howard.
Frank Vogel says Dwight Howard has been "all-business" since arriving in L.A.
— Harrison Faigen (@hmfaigen) October 1, 2019
We all know the story by now. Howard had a hard time in Los Angeles last time and this was partly due to his maturity issues. Those issues were a huge issue in each of his next stops as well. It is encouraging to hear that he’s here with a different mindset. The Lakers could be his last chance.
Howard came in to replace DeMarcus Cousins and although there are many question marks, he can make a big difference. He wasn’t bad during his last stop in Charlotte and honestly has the potential to make it as a starter.
@DwightHoward splashing FT's 👀
Via #LakersScene#Lakers #LakersPractice #DwightHoward pic.twitter.com/rVvg114m0z— LakersChapo (@LakersChapo) October 1, 2019
Caruso Update
A fan favorite and seemingly third-string point guard Alex Caruso has spent time with the second unit.
Alex Caruso has spent time both on and off the ball with the second unit, sometimes playing PG and sometimes SG next to Rondo, Bradley, Cook or KCP. “I think I can do both. That benefits me in the long run.” Vogel said he’s been impressive so far in camp.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) October 1, 2019
This isn’t a good sign for those who are calling for him to start but it could give us a good look at the second unit. It seems like a lock for him to be playing either backup point guard or shooting guard at this rate. Still, he was given the promise of more opportunities this year and we shall see if the Lakers deliver.
Tune in to Lakers Outsiders for more on Lakers Training Camp as the team prepares for the preseason.
