USA Today via Reuters
Feb 20, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers head coach Frank Vogel (right) talks to his team during a timeout in the fourth quarter of the Lakers 96-94 loss to the Miami Heat at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports | Courtesy: Reuters
USA Today via Reuters
Feb 20, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers head coach Frank Vogel (right) talks to his team during a timeout in the fourth quarter of the Lakers 96-94 loss to the Miami Heat at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports | Courtesy: Reuters
Coming out of an injury-plagued season, the Los Angeles Lakers are preparing for their next run at the championship. The preseason is nearing as Frank Vogel and co. will lock horns with the Brooklyn Nets in their first new-season matchup.
The previous season proved to be an unfortunate year for the Lakers. Having won the title in the Orlando Bubble, expectations were high from the defending champions. However, injuries took a huge toll on their standings. LeBron James and the Lakers were sent home by the eventual runner-up, Phoenix Suns in the first round of playoffs.
Lakers’ superstar James faced an ankle injury during the 2020-21 regular season. The King was benched in several games, leaving his partner Anthony Davis to lead the charge. Furthermore, things only got worse when AD faced a groin injury during Game 4 against the Suns. He missed Game 5 and most part of Game 6 only to watch his team being eliminated early on.
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USA Today via Reuters
Jun 3, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis (3), forward LeBron James (23) and coach Frank Vogel react in the second half during game six in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs against the Phoenix Suns at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Other than the star duo, the likes of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Alex Caruso, Kyle Kuzma, and Markieff Morris also went through minor injuries.
Trevor Ariza missed practice day due to an injury
With the new season coming up, the jolt may have not ended for the LA team. In their recent preseason practice on Thursday, Lakers forward Trevor Ariza missed the session due to right ankle soreness, as told by coach Frank Vogel.
Frank Vogel said Trevor Ariza has some right ankle soreness and didn’t practice today, but it’s nothing they’re concerned about. Otherwise, everybody practiced.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) September 30, 2021
The team has said it’s a minor break and he’ll be back soon. However, this season, the Lakers must be extra cautious with injuries after going through an on-and-off year for their stars.
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It’s a new season for the Lakers
All-star Davis is going to be back on court alongside LeBron James and a number of veteran stars recently acquired. The star-studded group includes Russell Westbrook, Carmelo Anthony, Dwight Howard, and Rajon Rondo.
USA Today via Reuters
May 25, 2021; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) celebrates with teammates against the Phoenix Suns during the first half in game two of the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Phoenix Suns Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
On Oct 3, the Lakers will begin their 2021-22 campaign against east’s star team Brooklyn Nets at the STAPLES Center. Fans will hope for an injury-free season for the Lakers this time around.
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