Lakers’ Week 11 in review
The Lakers went winless during Week 11, continuing a slide that has grown to 10 losses in 11 games.
The week began with a 110-97 loss to the Mavericks in Dallas.
Before the game, the Lakers waived forward Shawne Williams, reducing the roster to 14 players. The contracts of Ryan Kelly, Xavier Henry and Kendall Marshall were guaranteed for the rest of the season.
Williams earned $475,334 during his stint with the team.
The following night, the Lakers fell in Houston to the Rockets, 113-99.
Injuries have decimated the franchise, leading to a not-so-merry-go-round in the Lakers’ starting lineup.
One of the team’s biggest weakness is turnovers. On Friday against the Clippers, the Lakers turned the ball over 21 times, falling 123-87.
The Lakers play one quick game at home Tuesday against the Cleveland Cavaliers, before a long road trip. Meanwhile, the Lakers have dropped significantly in the Western Conference standings.
By the end of the weekend, the Lakers stood in 13th place in the Western Conference at 14-23.
Of the injured Lakers, Xavier Henry might be closest to a return. Coach Mike D’Antoni has hope Kobe Bryant and Steve Nash might be back as early as Jan. 28.
Despite playing only six games with Achilles’ tendon and knee issues, Kobe Bryant is on track to be elected an All-Star starter by the fans.
Even with the Lakers sliding out of playoff contention, General Manager Mitch Kupchak gave D’Antoni a vote of confidence.
Both Jodie Meeks and Jordan Hill are nearing salary incentives, based on both minutes and games played.
Former Lakers point guard Darius Morris was signed to a 10-day contract by the Clippers.
Finally, the D-Fenders, who represent the Lakers as their NBA Development League affiliate, will honor the late Jerry Buss on his Jan. 27 birthdate.
Email Eric Pincus at eric.pincus@gmail.com and follow him on Twitter @EricPincus.
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