Team chemistry was a major reason why the Los Angeles Lakers had the success they did in the 2019-20 season. Over a year before the Lakers won the championship, they formed a bond by sharing what was something of a traumatic experience during their preseason trip to China with the Brooklyn Nets.
Of course, all of the practices and appearances the players had, save for the two games in Shanghai and Shenzhen, were canceled. This left both teams nothing but time in their hotel rooms and with Chinese media waiting for anybody to talk, the NBA tried to push the coaches of the Lakers and Nets. But according to Lakers coach Frank Vogel, during an appearance on the Lowe Post, the players stopped that from happening, led by LeBron James.
“No, we’re not letting you do that. We’re not going to let the league throw you to the fire. We appreciate it coach, but no, it’s not happening.”
Vogel also earned the respect of LeBron for his preparation, getting the Lakers ready for their opponents throughout the season. It may have been an unexpected pairing, but Vogel, LeBron, and the Lakers appear to be just at the start of a special run. But all started with those tense moments back in China.
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