No matter the combination, Lakers Coach Mike Brown has hardly found something that works off the bench.
The Lakers' reserves enter Sunday's game against the Indiana Pacers ranked 19th overall in offense, averaging 27.7 points per game and 43.1% shooting. Yet, even if Brown conceded the constant shuffling has contributed to the inconsistency, he's going to continue to do so in hopes he finds something that works.
"I'm in search mode," Brown said, "and I'm looking for a little bit of punch off the bench."
The most immediate adjustment might involve increasing playing time for Devin Ebanks considering Metta World Peace has averaged a career-low 5.1 points and 32.% shooting in 19 minutes. But even Brown wouldn't commit one way or the other to that.
There's a few reasons for the Lakers' constant inconsistency. There are injuries: Forward Josh McRoberts missed six games because of a sprained big toe in his left foot. Guard Steve Blake has remained sidelined because of a fracture connected to his rib and sternum. There were lineup shufflings: McRoberts started the first four games because of Andrew Bynum's suspension. Ebanks started the first four games over Matt Barnes because Brown liked his shooting stroke and athleticism.
And players such as McRoberts, Troy Murphy, Jason Kapono, Darius Morris and Andrew Goudelock are Lakers newcomers.
"All of our guys have been good with the juggling I've been doing right now and we've found ways to sort of stay competitive and at least have a winning record and keep our head above water," Brown said. "I was hoping and expecting until we get this figured out."
