If there was news from Tuesday’s practice at L.A.’s facility, it was that Andrew Bynum completed the entire practice, confirming speculation yesterday that his strained shoulder was a non-issue.
“He had some discomfort but he played all right, he played right through it,” said Phil Jackson. “He went to work and did his job.”
You can check Lakers.com for the video, but here are a few summary thoughts:
Jackson neglected to dismiss the 0-4 Clippers, mostly because of the on-paper talent they have when they’re fully healthy. Last night against Utah, Marcus Camby and Baron Davis both played for the first time this season, but clearly the Clips need some time on the floor to figure everything out. My guess is that the Lakers aren’t the team against whom they’re hoping to get into a flow.
Phil said that he’s hoping to use a deep bench throughout the season, even though the rotation might shorten a little in the playoffs. Key phrase: a little. Pretty standard, except for the fact that L.A. can probably play its entire second unit comfortably in the playoffs. Maybe you leave Bynum or Gasol in, but other than that Jackson knows he has quite the luxury of talent.
Having this light week (just one game) is ideal not in November, but in March, says Phil.
Sasha Vujacic just needs some more time on the floor to get in rhythm, according to Jackson. Sasha agrees, but told me he’s feeling better and better each day.
In unrelated news, I spent several minutes talking nonsense with Lamar Odom on camera, and we’ll have that video up in the next few days. Some funny stuff from LO, as usual.
UPDATE: Click below the jump for the video of Phil after today’s practice
