Subscribe
Follow Us
The Los Angeles Lakers fell to the Portland Trail Blazers in Game 1 of their opening round playoff series, 100-93. It was a tough outing for the Lake Show, but help could be on the way in the form of Rajon Rondo.
Rondo, now 34 years of age, has been dealing with a broken thumb. He underwent successful surgery last month and has since recovered. He rejoined his teammates inside the NBA's bubble complex earlier this week. Unfortunately, though, the former Kentucky Wildcat wasn't available for Game 1, as he was still clearing COVID-19 protocol.
At this point, it's not clear if Rondo will be available for Thursday night's Game 2 matchup. According to reports, he'll need to pass seven consecutive coronavirus tests before being allowed to play. Lakers head coach Frank Vogel told ESPN that Rondo is “close, but we'll continue to evaluate it day by day.” Vogel also noted that Rondo has actively participated in the team's coaches’ meetings since being injured.
The Lakers, who finished with a shoddy 5-of-34 mark from downtown in Game 1, could certainly use “Playoff Rondo.” He may not help much in the 3-point department, but his defensive prowess could have been the difference in Tuesday's loss. Los Angeles needs to slow down a red-hot Damian Lillard, and Rondo may be one of their best options for the job.
You see the impact of the Rondo/Bradley not being available — LAL having to go to giant lineups that haven't played much together. One group I might try for a few minutes: Caruso/Green/KCP/Bron/Davis. Did not play last night, understandably w/ Kuzma providing solid minutes.
— Zach Lowe (@ZachLowe_NBA) August 19, 2020
With averages of 7.1 points and 5.0 assists for this season, Rondo may not be the player he once was. However, his play-making and ball distribution could really help the Lakers right now, given the team's issues in those areas. He's also familiar with playing against the Blazers in the postseason. Playing alongside Anthony Davis with the New Orleans Pelicans, Rajon gave Portland fits in the 2018 playoffs. In fact, the Pelicans swept that series and advanced to the semifinal round for the second time in franchise history.
Can Rondo and AD recreate some of their on-court chemistry in this series?
The Lakers could certainly use a bit of a lift after their poor shooting performance in Game 1. Rajon Rondo, who often runs the offense when LeBron James is on the bench, could be just what the doctor ordered.
Players like Alex Caruso, Dion Waiters and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope have seen increased workloads in Rondo's absence. Their minutes will likely drop a bit if Rondo is cleared to play.
Game 2 is set to tip inside Disney's Wide World of Sports complex on Thursday at 9:00 p.m. ET. ESPN will have live broadcast coverage.
