As the start of training camp has arrived, the Los Angeles Lakers are preparing for next season’s grind, along with all other NBA teams. Although a bit shortened, it will give their players the opportunity to familiarize themselves with their new teammates, and the sets head coach Luke Walton wants them to run. However, they are reportedly only going to see less participation from two of their players.
According to Serena Winters of Lakers Nation, both Brook Lopez and rookie Josh Hart are going to be limited during training camp as they are both dealing with injuries. Lopez has his back issues, while Hart is recovering from a pulled hamstring.
Luke Walton says Brook Lopez (back) and Josh Hart (hamstring) may be a bit limited at the start of training camp. #Lakers
— Serena Winters (@SerenaWinters) September 25, 2017
Although both players are not nursing serious injuries that will put their availability for next season in danger, it is very understandable that the Lakers are taking a cautious approach on them, as they want their players as close to 100 percent as possible when the regular season begins. Brook Lopez is even expected to be their starting center, and should receive the lion's share of the minutes at the position. Josh Hart on the other hand, will need to prove his worth in order to crack the team's stacked guard rotation.
The coaching staff is hopeful that the additional rest they will receive will benefit Lopez and Hart, and would allow them to suit up on opening night. With the Lakers' vastly improved roster, many are already expecting them to compete for a playoff spot, but will need all their players to be healthy to achieve that.
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