Three Things the Lakers Can Learn From the Undefeated Warriors

Attempt to Use D’Angelo Russell Like Stephen Curry

Easier said than done, but the Los Angeles Lakers must learn to use D’Angelo Russell like Stephen Curry. Despite shooting the majority of his shots off the dribble, the Dubs run a variety of plays for Curry off ball, which frees him up for wide open looks.

Just because you’re the point guard doesn’t mean you have to constantly have the ball in your hands. Stephen Curry’s understanding of this point is one of the reasons for his astronomical rise to super stardom.

Even though Russell is deadliest handling the ball, the Lakers must utilize his knock down shooting ability to make him an even bigger offensive threat. Russell struggled early adjusting the NBA 3-point range but he has shown signs of improvement in recent contests.

As referenced by Kevin Ding, the Warriors’ success all starts and ends with Chef Curry. Every time he steps onto an NBA floor, Steph creates a gravitational pull that draws everyone closer to him.

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This applies not only to fans, whose eyes are glued to Curry as soon as he enters the arena, but more so, with players who must consciously remind themselves to monitor him at all times, or pay the price.

This phenomenon is seen most frequently when Curry is the ball handler — teams double teaming him in order to get the ball out of his hands, in turn, attempting to make someone else beat them — but more impressively when he’s roaming off ball. If allowed the freedom and given the confidence of his coach, in time, perhaps Russell could have a similar effect.

Considering the Lakers starting lineup consists of four ball dominant scoring options, the Lakers would be wise to run plays for Russell off ball, just like they have been doing so often with Jordan Clarkson to start the season.

Stephen Curry shoots a 3-pointer every 3.1 minutes and makes one every 7 minutes of play. That said, it’s safe to assume that nearly 1-out-of-3 of those made threes were likely assisted.

Prior to entering the league, D’Angelo Russell named Stephen Curry as the player who he most emulates but this prediction will only come to fruition if he gets smart and realizes why Curry is so good.

Sure, it helps when you can nail a jumpshot anywhere within 35 feet from the hoop, but Russell would be wise to understand that it’s Curry’s unselfishness that makes him a once in a lifetime superstar.

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