Defensive Team Grades
Defensive Grade: B-
Scoring Defense: D
The Lakers have shown that they can score a lot of points AND that they can give up a lot of points. In fact, the team allows the third-most points per game with 120 a night – only 0.7 more away from the most.
In last night’s matchup, LA gave up 110 points. This was low compared to usual standards, but they also allowed Derrick Rose to hit seven triples and two in the last 90 seconds of the game! The addition of Tyson Chandler definitely helped in the interior and we hope that allows players to focus more on the perimeter.
Blocking/Stealing: C
The team finished below their season averages of 6.4 blocks and 8.8 steals as they had four and six, respectively. However, it was enough to get the W.
Rebounding: B
The Lakers had 35 defensive rebounds which nearly equals their season average. They also out-rebounded the Timberwolves by six on the defensive end. Once again, thank you Tyson Chandler (and still JaVale McGee).
Fouling: A+
The team had a season-low 14 fouls. Moreover, no one had more than three fouls. If the Lakers can keep this up, their lineups can be absolutely lethal.