Monday, June 9, 2008

Why the Lakers aren't getting to the line against Boston

I saw where the Lakers are upset about not getting to the line more often. Said Coach Jackson in the Game 2 post-game press conference:

"I'm struck by the fact that Leon Powe gets more foul shots than our whole team..."

Here's why:

LA is a team built on surrounding Kobe with jump-shooters. They rely heavily on KB's one-on-one ability and isolations and the Triangle offensive post-ups of Gasol (and, before he was hurt, Andrew Bynum).

So their roster is stocked with non-slashing/driver-type players who are low-volume FTA players who fit in well with the Triangle offense.

The Lakers have a number of players who are comfortable as spot-up shooters and get their looks off Bryant creating or the Triangle offense. Radmanovic, Walton, Sasha, Karl, Mihm -- these are relatively non-athletic/low-volume FTA guys.

But spot-up shooting is difficult against the Celtics, who aggressively contest shots and want you to put it on the floor. Players who have ability to create their own shot off the dribble bother Boston much more than spot-up shooters.

LA's Ariza is a slasher who might need to play more in Game 3. Further, Odom and Farmar must be more aggressive off the dribble as the series moves to Staples Center.