During the Lakers’ victory against the Cavaliers, Frank Vogel made a choice after returning from the locker room. The coach was questioned on the subject, and tried to justify himself. It’s clear: not everyone will be able to play for the Angelinos.
Victorious over the Cavaliers earlier in the week, the Lakers regained their confidence. They will try to start a winning streak this Sunday night, all against the Rockets of young Jalen Green. A match that they are supposed to win, even if it will be necessary to be wary of this young team. At least, the Big 3 will be present to try to garner a new success.
If the latter is guaranteed to play, this is not the case for everyone. We know that a return is taking shape in the coming days, since the infirmary is finally starting to empty. For rotation, however, it is still unknown, with players who can spend a good majority of the time on the bench.
Malik Monk victim of Lakers competition
Frank Vogel had warned before the start of the season: everyone will have complicated moments. Sometimes DeAndre Jordan won’t play, with a Anthony Davis placed in the role of the pivot. But against Cleveland, it was Malik Monk who made the choices of his coach, since Avery Bradley was preferred when he returned from the locker room.
Frank Vogel said that Malik Monk not playing in the second half was because he liked Avery Bradley defensively against Cleveland’s quick guards.
But he added Monk has been outstanding for the Lakers in his minutes this season.
— Lakers Nation (@LakersNation) October 30, 2021
Frank Vogel indicated that Malik Monk did not play the second half because he liked Avery Bradley’s defensive contribution against the quick pointers from Cleveland. He added that Monk has been amazing in his minutes with the Lakers this season.
Avery Bradley is indeed known for his defensive prowess, which can make all the difference, especially in the playoffs. It is quite the opposite for Monk, who did not stand out on this side of the floor. He was often overtaken by events, making his presence on the floor complex in the last minutes. A choice already hailed by fans.
Monk shines in other registers, such as the attack with his good three-point address. He has nevertheless declined in performance since his preseason, forcing Vogel to vary his rotation in order to come away with the victory. If the former Hornet wants more consistent playing time, he’ll have to show he’s capable of being good at defense.
Malik Monk is paying for Frank Vogel’s picks, and he obviously won’t be the only one. It’s a long season for the Lakers, with a regular season and, if the results are there, a playoff. The manager will have to find the best possible team, and Avery Bradley has scored some valuable points.
