It’s safe to assume that, at this point in the season, there is absolutely no option better for the Los Angeles Lakers than tanking. With Kobe Bryant out, there’s no ego blocking them from losing and with their record already as bad as it is, there’s no logic in “fighting” for more wins.
In recent weeks, Byron Scott has made roster decisions that signify the franchise’s focus shifting to the future as opposed to the present. By bringing the likes of Jordan Clarkson, Ryan Kelly and Robert Sacre into the starting line-up and increasing their minutes over the likes of Ronnie Price or Carlos Boozer, the Lakers are looking are what they have for the future.
However, the Lakers and, more specifically, Byron Scott, are doing an imperfect job of focusing on the future. For example, starting Ryan Kelly and playing him significant minutes at small forward is only hindering his development going forward. Similarly, playing Sacre big minutes instead of the likes of Ed Davis is doing the Lakers no favors in terms of showcasing talent for a possible trade.
Therefore, let’s look at a what the Lakers rotation should look like over the final 34 games of the year with tanking on the mind with (imperfect) minute projections. Note that there will be multiple players in different positions. Split their minutes between said positions. As I said, this is an imperfect formula.
Next: Point Guards