Identity in the NBA
The Foundational Qualities that Define a Team
Identity in the NBA, the foundational qualities that define how a team will play most nights, are almost always forged over the course of a season. The Lakers began the season convinced they would need to simply outscore their opponents because of their defensive liabilities. Then, in a 180-degree turn, an improved defensive effort helped fuel their recent run of strong play — the team simply pouring more energy into that area of the court.
The Parts of Identity that Can’t be Learned
But what about the parts of identity that can’t be learned? What about the things that just are?
A Team’s True Nature
On Monday night against the Detroit Pistons, the Lakers, at times, played with speed. They were, at times, able to play with physicality. But the Lakers, on most nights, are simply a roster trying to be those things. And against a team like Detroit, one that doesn’t have to try to be physical or athletic, it’s crystal clear what the Lakers aren’t — big, strong or particularly athletic.
The Consequences of Identity
LeBron James made a career of owning those traits at levels no one else could match. But 22 years in the NBA has provided a template for how to bully smaller players, the Pistons hunting the smallest Lakers with Cade Cunningham — often Austin Reaves — and battering them for a 117-114 win.
The Game in Review
The Lakers (16-13), who trailed by as many as 11 in the fourth after getting bruised for most of the second half, got to within three in the final 30 seconds. But Anthony Davis missed a driving layup. And while a foul got called, Detroit challenged, and officials overturned the decision. The Pistons (13-17) and Cunningham again went at Reaves, with the Lakers guard forcing a late-clock miss. The team had 3.7 seconds and one last chance to get a tie, but James missed an open three just before the buzzer.
Conclusion
Monday’s loss was a testament to the Lakers’ growing understanding of the way they need to play, aided by some welcomed offense provided by 14 successful three-pointers — the most for the Lakers in five games. And physically, the Lakers did fight — just not with as much comfortability as the Pistons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Lakers’ true nature as a team?
A: The Lakers are a roster that tries to play with speed and physicality, but they lack the physicality and athleticism to compete with bigger and stronger teams.
Q: How did the Lakers’ identity affect their game against the Pistons?
A: The Lakers’ lack of physicality and athleticism made it difficult for them to compete with the Pistons, who were able to bully them with their size and strength.
Q: What were the key factors in the Lakers’ loss to the Pistons?
A: The Lakers’ turnovers, which led to 28 Pistons points, and their inability to match up with the Pistons’ physicality and athleticism.
