Inside the Lakers’ Unique Preparation: A Laker in Warriors Clothes
Introduction:
In their second-round series against the Golden State Warriors, the Los Angeles Lakers took a unique approach to their scout team preparation. They assigned Dru Anthrop, the team’s head video coordinator and player development coach, to impersonate Klay Thompson during practice sessions. This unconventional strategy aimed to familiarize the Lakers’ rotation players with the Warriors’ style of play. With special practice uniforms printed in enemy colors, the Lakers’ coaching staff emphasized the importance of this immersive technique. As the Lakers aim for postseason success, they believe this method plays a crucial role in their preparations.

Dru Anthrop: The Impersonator
Dru Anthrop, the Lakers’ head video coordinator and player development coach, took on the role of Klay Thompson during practice sessions. Despite not having Thompson’s physical attributes, Anthrop’s in-depth knowledge of the Warriors’ game facilitated an effective imitation. Having spent countless hours analyzing Warriors’ game footage, Anthrop found it second nature to embody Thompson’s playing style on the court. This impersonation technique proved efficient in preparing the Lakers’ rotation players for the challenges posed by the Warriors.
A Visual Cue of Intensity
The Lakers’ commitment to their scout team process is reflected in their practice uniforms. Lakers equipment manager, Andrew Henk, ordered blue pinnies for the team, with the Grizzlies’ and Warriors’ uniform numbers affixed using a heat press. These practice jerseys, in enemy colors, add an extra level of intensity to the team’s preparation. As the playoffs bring heightened stakes, the visual cue of wearing opponent-colored jerseys reminds the Lakers of the importance of their mission to secure the 2023 NBA title.
Seriousness and Focus: No Fooling Around
The Lakers’ coaching staff takes their scout team process seriously, emphasizing focus and dedication. When the team gathers for practice sessions against the scout team, everyone is fully engaged and locked in. The specialized practice uniforms, along with the intense atmosphere created, eliminate any room for goofing off. With their eyes set on achieving success in the playoffs, the Lakers’ commitment to preparation shines through their meticulous approach to scout team practice.
Conclusion:
The Los Angeles Lakers’ unique scout team preparation, featuring Dru Anthrop impersonating Klay Thompson, showcases the team’s dedication to detail and their commitment to maximizing their chances of success in the playoffs. With specially designed practice uniforms and a serious, focused atmosphere, the Lakers aim to replicate the intensity and challenges posed by their opponents. As the Lakers continue their postseason journey, this immersive approach serves as a valuable tool in their pursuit of the 2023 NBA title.
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- Dru Anthrop, the Lakers’ head video coordinator and player development coach, impersonates Klay Thompson during practice sessions.
- Anthrop’s extensive knowledge of the Warriors’ game allows him to effectively imitate Thompson’s playing style.
- Special practice uniforms printed in enemy colors add intensity and emphasize the importance of preparation.
- Lakers’ coaching staff emphasizes seriousness and focus during scout team practice, leaving no room for goofing off.
- The immersive approach aims to replicate the challenges and intensity of playoff matchups.
- The Lakers believe this unique preparation method plays a crucial role in their quest for the 2023 NBA title.
Summary:
The Los Angeles Lakers have adopted a unique approach to their scout team preparation for the second-round series against the Golden State Warriors. Dru Anthrop, the team’s head video coordinator and player development coach, impersonates Klay Thompson during practice sessions. Despite not physically resembling Thompson, Anthrop’s extensive knowledge of the Warriors’ game allows him to effectively imitate Thompson’s playing style.
The Lakers have also introduced special practice uniforms in enemy colors to create a heightened sense of intensity and remind the team of the importance of their playoff mission. The coaching staff emphasizes seriousness and focus during scout team practice, leaving no room for distractions. The immersive approach aims to replicate the challenges and intensity of playoff matchups and is considered a crucial component of the Lakers’ preparations as they strive for the 2023 NBA title.