Ever since making his changes to the starting lineup, Los Angeles Lakers head coach Byron Scott has had a pretty set rotation, especially when it comes to the frontcourt. Jordan Hill, Ed Davis and Carlos Boozer all get around 25 minutes depending on who is playing best that night, and Robert Sacre has averaged around 15 minutes as well.
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With Ryan Kelly set to return from injury and the Lakers claiming Tarik Black off waivers, there are two more players looking to crack the rotation and according to Lakers reporter Mike Trudell, the lineup will change some:
Byron Scott has had a relatively set frontcourt rotation of late, but w/Kelly returning and Black's addition, we'll see some fluctuation.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) January 1, 2015
In particular, Scott is looking to find Kelly some minutes because of his ability as a stretch four via Trudell:
Scott wants to find Ryan Kelly minutes regardless, as he provides something LAL otherwise don't have as a stretch 4. He's gonna play.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) January 1, 2015
The addition of both players gives the Lakers some different options depending on the matchup each night. Last year, Kelly turned out to be one of the more consistent rotation players and even earned a starting job by the time the season ended.
Black gives the Lakers more defense and toughness, which is something Scott is always looking for. It will be interesting to see how Scott works his rotations and substitutions with so many options.
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