Sometimes basketball arguments do not revolve around the numbers. They revolve around the vibes. And right now, the Los Angeles Lakers’ starting lineup vibe has quietly improved the moment Jake LaRavia stepped into it.
How Rui Hachimura’s injury opened an unexpected door
Rui Hachimura’s calf injury obviously is not something anyone wanted, but it cracked open an opportunity the Lakers probably did not realize they needed. With more minutes and real responsibility, LaRavia has not just filled a space, he has filled gaps and has been proving that he should be one of the team's five starters.