Free Throw Struggles
Although there are a few glaring flaws in the Lakers’ play, one stands out the most – free throws. Heading into the Clippers’ game, the Lakers were shooting a league-worst 70.5 percent from the charity stripe. Even more disturbingly, the team averages 23.6 free throws per game – ranking in the top-half of the league.
While shooting struggles are a part of young teams, it should be a flaw that is fixed, not expected. The Lakers are now 20 games into the season, which means that 25 percent of the season is finished. With the season in full-swing, it is key that Luke Walton begins to hone in on free throw struggles at practice and during games.
The Lakers struggled from the line once again against the Clippers. The team shot an unpleasant 66.7 percent from the line while attempting 24 free throws. Contrarily, the Clips shot an outstanding 93.3 percent from the line while attempting 30 free throws. So, as it can be seen, the Lakers lost this game because of free throws.
Next: Lakers vs Clippers Recap and Highlights
If the Lakers’ free throw struggles continue they will continue to lose more games. Hopefully, Coach Walton can figure this situation out soon as he takes on his old team – the Golden State Warriors – on Wednesday.