Rui Hachimura of the Los Angeles Lakers addressed the media ahead of Game 4 of their first-round series against the Denver Nuggets, highlighting the disparity in experience between the two teams.
Amidst talks of potential lineup changes as the Lakers face the threat of a sweep, assistant coach Darvin Ham remained steadfast, stating, “I”m not changing my starting lineup.”
Reflecting on last year”s playoff series against the Nuggets, where adjustments were made but ultimately fell short, Ham emphasized his trust in the current roster, including D”Angelo Russell, despite recent struggles.
“Russell got back in the gym, as he”s always done, and worked on his stuff,” Ham stated, emphasizing the importance of player confidence and belief.
However, Lakers forward Rui Hachimura pointed out the Nuggets” advantage in continuity, noting, “We just don”t have enough experience,” in comparison to Denver”s cohesive roster.
Hachimura”s assessment comes amidst a series where the Lakers find themselves on the brink of elimination for the second consecutive year. Despite this, he remains optimistic about the team”s potential, stating, “We have the talent, for sure. I don”t think anybody can beat us, just the talent-wise.”
The Lakers will look to stave off elimination in Game 4, with Hachimura affirming the team”s determination to extend their season.
As speculation mounts regarding the future of the Lakers” roster, Ham reiterated the team”s focus on the immediate task at hand, emphasizing the need for a shift in mindset to salvage the series.
A win in Game 4 would prolong the Lakers” playoff run and provide a glimmer of hope amidst uncertainties about the team”s future.
“We”ve played some good basketball against Denver,” Ham stated optimistically. “So hopefully tomorrow will be different.”