Former NBA player Pau Gasol joins the hosts to discuss the Lakers retiring his jersey and preview the Lakers vs. Grizzlies game. They analyze defensive strategies, playoff positioning in the Western conference, and the challenges faced by teams in the playoff race. The focus is on the Lakers' dedication to win crucial games and a tribute to Pau Gasol during an upcoming game.
The Lakers need to secure wins against specific teams like the Timberwolves, Clippers, and Mavericks to improve their playoff standing.
Maintaining focus on winning games and having a clear goal is crucial for the Lakers' success amidst uncertainties like player contracts and injuries.
Anthony Davis plays a pivotal role as a key player and leader for the Lakers, with his performances impacting the team's overall success.
Deep dives
Analysis of Western Conference Playoff Race and Team's Chances
The podcast delves into the Western Conference playoff race with a focus on how certain teams are performing and where they might end up in the standings. It discusses the Lakers' position and their chances of securing a playoff spot, highlighting the importance of upcoming games against specific teams like the Timberwolves, Clippers, and Mavericks to improve their standing. The conversation emphasizes the need for wins and the impact of key players like Anthony Davis on the team's performance.
Importance of Focus and Game Strategy
The episode underscores the Lakers' need to stay focused on winning games and not get distracted by external factors. It mentions the significance of maintaining a united front and having a clear goal in mind, despite uncertainties surrounding player contracts and injuries. The host emphasizes the importance of game strategy and adapting to different opponents to secure crucial victories.
Upcoming Key Games and Player Performances
The podcast highlights upcoming critical games for the Lakers against teams like the Mavericks, Timberwolves, and Clippers, emphasizing the need to win these matchups. It discusses Anthony Davis' pivotal role as a key player and leader for the Lakers, stressing the impact of his performances on the team's success. The episode also mentions the tribute to Pau Gasol and the significance of honoring his contributions to the Lakers franchise.
Focus on Anthony Davis and Tribute to Pau Gasol
The podcast shifts to focus on Anthony Davis as a crucial player for the Lakers and the impact of his performances on the team's outcomes. It mentions specific game-winning plays by Davis and his importance to the team's success. Additionally, the episode acknowledges the tribute to Pau Gasol, highlighting the special recognition of one of the Lakers' legendary players and the emotional significance of honoring his legacy.
Discussion on Team Unity and Playoff Aspirations
The podcast wraps up with a discussion on the importance of team unity and a shared goal of reaching the playoffs. It emphasizes the need for players to come together and focus on achieving success in the postseason. The episode closes with optimism about the Lakers' chances and their dedication to pushing for a playoff spot amidst a competitive Western Conference race.
On the night the Lakers will retire Pau Gasol's jersey, the Lakers face the organization that traded him to L.A. when the Grizzlies come to town. Mike and Darius preview the game, focusing on defending Memphis without Ja Morant and how to get AD going vs. Jaren Jackson Jr. Then later, the guys discuss the standings implications of the Grizz game and take stock of the play-in chase by diving into how the Blazers, Pelicans, Jazz, Thunder, and Lakers' motivations, injury issues, and schedules shape their path towards the postseason.