Advertisement

Strong play from Jordan Hill might shift Lakers’ rotation

Lakers forward Jordan Hill, right, battles for position with Portland's Meyers Leonard during a game last season.
(Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)
Share via

The Lakers have a 1-2 record after losing Friday night to the San Antonio Spurs 91-85.

Coach Mike D’Antoni is still trying to sort through his rotation options, especially at power forward.

“I’m still searching for the right combinations,” D’Antoni said after the loss.

On Friday, Jordan Hill once again made an impact at center for the second unit. Hill was also a major part of the Lakers’ opening-night run past the Clippers.

To get Hill more minutes, D’Antoni can try Chris Kaman alongside Pau Gasol in the starting lineup -- instead of using Kaman as the first big off the bench.

Advertisement

“If that’s good, that’s the problem. I still like spreading the floor; it helps other people,” D’Antoni said. “We might look at that a little bit but somehow we’ve got to figure that little part out and make it the best we can.”

D’Antoni has stuck with starter Shawne Williams to try to help space the floor with more speed, athleticism and outside shooting.

Hill has really shown that he has a natural chemistry with a small lineup made up with reserves Jordan Farmar, Jodie Meeks, Xavier Henry and Wesley Johnson.

Advertisement

D’Antoni doesn’t quite trust the bigger lineup with Gasol and Kaman, but he may have to make a change if the Lakers continue to struggle.

ALSO:

Lakers run out of momentum in 91-85 loss to Spurs

Advertisement

Kobe Bryant’s payday, taking into account future value

Lakers vs. Mavericks wins vote for broadcast on NBA TV’s ‘Fan Night’

Email Eric Pincus at eric.pincus@gmail.com and follow him on Twitter @EricPincus.

Advertisement