Despite suffering a defeat on ring night to the Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers head coach Frank Vogel identified Dennis Schroder and Montrezl Harrell as key contributors in the long haul.
In the Lakers 109-116 loss to the Clippers, Schroder almost had a triple-double with 14 points, 12 rebounds, and eight assists. Harrell, for his part, chalked up his usual stat line of 17 points and 10 rebounds. Rather than sulking in sorrow, Vogel was rejuvenated after seeing the duo's performance.
Vogel on Dennis Schroder and Montrezl Harrell: "Those guys are going to be big time players for us this year. I was very encouraged.”
Schroder: 14 points, 12 boards, 8 assists/1 turnover, 5 of 15 FG’s,
Harrell: 17 points, 10 boards, 3 assists, 6 of 7 FG’s— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) December 23, 2020
He noted that both Harrell and Schroder know how to win. And in the course of the regular season, they will be critical pieces to the Lakers' quest to defend the title.
Frank Vogel on Montrezl Harrell and Dennis Schroder’s debuts: “Both of them are winning players.” Said they’ll both “be big contributors” this season.
— Ryan Ward (@RyanWardLA) December 23, 2020
Harrell and Schroder were two of the biggest pick-ups of the Lakers in the offseason. Harrell caught everyone by surprise when he ditched the Clippers and chose to don the Purple and Gold. He hinted that the Clippers did not prioritize him in the offseason and had no choice but to leave.
Meanwhile, Schroder was acquired via trade from the Oklahoma City Thunder. Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka admitted that they've been eyeing the German stalwart for quite some time. Schroder's fearlessness and tenacity were what caught their eye. And this persona fits right in with the Lakers' culture.
These are great words from Vogel who chose to keep a positive mindset despite a loss. He knows that it's going to be a long season and they have a chance to make the right adjustments.
The Lakers look to bounce back when they face the Dallas Mavericks on Christmas day.
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