Generally speaking, upgrading your defense will more or less have an impact on the offense.
The Lakers felt that impact at the beginning too. Even though their improved defense really grabbed the attention of the media and fans, early on the bigger discussion was whether this kind of "sacrifice offense to strengthen defense" approach was actually making the Lakers stronger or weaker.
But as the Lakers' adjustments went deeper—and as Del Harris lost a few more tufts of hair—that problem gradually got fixed.
By the time they played the Clippers, it was obvious: the Lakers were still maintaining that post–All-Star Weekend defensive efficiency, and their offense was getting better and better as they played.
After the first five games following All-Star Weekend, the Lakers got two days off.
On February 21, Sports Illustrated invited a panel of retired stars to form a commentary group and break down the Lakers' style of play.
