The Los Angeles Lakers have hit their stride in recent games, winning six of their last seven and securing a 9-6 record, propelling them to the quarterfinals of the In-Season Tournament. A surprising factor in their success has been backup center Christian Wood.
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Wood, acquired in the late stages of the offseason on a veteran minimum contract amid weeks of speculation, hasn’t filled the stat sheet as he did in his previous stops. However, he’s exceeded expectations defensively, coming off a notable 16-point, eight-rebound performance against the Utah Jazz.
Christian Wood
This standout display precedes a matchup against his former team, the Dallas Mavericks, a team that he joined in a less-than-satisfactory deal from the Houston Rockets. Wood, now with the Lakers, is gearing up to face the Mavericks for the first time since leaving, emphasizing the need for patience in approaching the game against his former teammates.
“I just need to be ready, play my role without overdoing it. While facing my former team, I definitely want to compete, but maintaining composure, staying patient, and sticking to my game. Finding a rhythm on both ends has been my focus throughout the season.”
Wood also shared insights on key Mavericks players, highlighting the challenges posed by superstars Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving.
“Containing Luka is tough; he does what he does. Kyrie being Kyrie is a given. Our focus should be on our game, maintaining our pace, winning quarters and halves. Not fixating on individual matchups but adhering to team concepts.”
Known for occasionally trying too hard to prove himself on the court, Wood has displayed veteran composure this season, consistently contributing positively to the Lakers. While facing his former team presents a challenge, his performances this year suggest he’s more than capable of meeting it.
The Lakers, benefiting from a blowout win, are well-rested heading into a back-to-back game. Stars LeBron James and Anthony Davis sat out the entire fourth quarter, ensuring they are in good shape for the upcoming matchup against the Mavericks.
Davis emphasized the importance of the rest, expressing confidence that he and James will be ready to play against the formidable Mavericks.
“Knowing we have another tough game tomorrow, we focused on ourselves, especially on the defensive end. Resting in the fourth quarter was crucial. We’ve been addressing issues with transition and second-chance points, so getting some rest and preparing for tomorrow is the priority.”
