It has been roller coaster ride all season long for the Los Angeles Lakers in terms of players being in and out of the lineup due to injuries or simply the coach’s decision.
On Friday, Steve Nash and Nick Young are set to return to the lineup after dealing with injuries, but with two key players returning, one will sit out.
— Celebrate March Madness With 25% Off The Entire Store! Use Code: FutureLaker —
According to Mike Trudell of Lakers.com, Wes Johnson will miss tonight’s game against the Washington Wizards due to an upper respiratory infection:
Wesley Johnson is out with an upper respiratory infection. Kent Bazemore could start at the 3, with Ryan Kelly at the 4.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) March 21, 2014
Johnson has been one of the more consistent players on this team in terms of being able to stay healthy. Although Johnson has missed a few games this season, head coach Mike D’Antoni has been able to count on the fourth-year forward for 66 games thus far.
With Johnson out for tonight’s game at the Staples Center, D’Antoni will likely turn to new addition Kent Bazemore. Many believed Bazemore would be nothing more than a sideshow act on the bench like Robert Sacre once acquired in the Steve Blake trade, but the versatile guard/forward has proven to be a valuable asset on both ends of the floor.
Along with Nash and Young returning on Friday, Jordan Hill also appears ready to get back on the floor.
_________________________________________________________________________________
Lakers News: Jeanie Buss Talks Her Role And Phil Jackson On ESPN Radio