The Los Angeles Lakers, one of the NBA’s most storied franchises, have embarked on an unprecedented 1,750-mile journey from the West Coast to the Midwest for a single preseason game against the Milwaukee Bucks. The logistics of the trip have raised eyebrows, particularly those of their superstar, LeBron James, who took to social media to express his bewilderment: “Can someone please explain to me why we’re getting on a [plane emoji] and heading to Milwaukee for 1 pre-season game!?!?” This query reflects not just a personal sentiment but a broader concern regarding the efficiency and practicality of preseason scheduling, especially in light of the Lakers’ current situation.
In a normal basketball season, teams often benefit from a series of home games, allowing them to build chemistry and momentum without the taxing travel schedule. However, the Lakers’ unique circumstances have dictated an entirely different approach this year. With their home arena—now known as Crypto.com Arena—undergoing significant renovations, the team’s schedule is forced to deviate from the norm, resulting in a series of away games that some players and fans find questionable.
The Lakers are currently in the third phase of extensive renovations to their beloved arena, previously known as the Staples Center. This rebranding and physical makeover came about with the intention of enhancing the fan experience and bolstering the venues’ modernity as the NBA continues to evolve. Unfortunately, the disruption meant that the Lakers, as well as the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings, would be displaced during the preseason. As a result, fans are missing out on the chance to cheer on their team in their home environment, which could be detrimental to team morale.
First-year head coach JJ Redick articulated the struggle of managing such a burdensome travel schedule, stating, “Not an ideal preseason for us.” He acknowledges the complexities of holding a successful training camp while juggling travel logistics. Historically, the Lakers have balanced home and away games effectively in previous preseason setups, allowing for a well-rounded preparation for the grueling regular season. Now, the travel fatigue may affect not only the players but also the team’s overall readiness as they prepare to face their competitors.
With the regular season commencing on October 22 against the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Lakers are keen to use their limited preseason schedule to build chemistry and test out strategies. However, the current structure means they will face several games in quick succession across multiple locations. Following the Milwaukee game, the team will set their sights on contests in Las Vegas and Phoenix—all within a four-day timeframe.
This quick succession raises questions about player fatigue and health, especially for veterans like James and Anthony Davis, who recently participated in international competitions over the summer. Lakers’ guard D’Angelo Russell pointed out the potential toll on these star players but emphasized the eagerness of the remainder of the roster to hit the court, regardless of location. There is a palpable hunger among the team to don the iconic purple and gold and seize the spotlight.
While the NBA has flexible structures regarding preseason games—allowing teams to organize their schedules—this season’s challenges provide a glimpse into the balancing act that franchises must perform. The Lakers’ commitment to engaging fans in different markets, such as their history of playing in non-NBA cities, signifies their broader vision for building the brand. However, without the comfort of home games, the Lakers may grapple with the difficulties of finding their rhythm.
As they navigate this challenging and unusual preseason, the Lakers’ commitment to playing through adversity speaks volumes about their character and determination. The implications of such a demanding schedule extend beyond just strategic implications; they serve as a test of resilience. As the world keeps watching, anticipation grows for how this early stage will shape the trajectory of their season. With insight and adaptability, the Lakers hope to turn what could have been a disjointed preseason into a stepping stone towards a successful campaign.