Adding Dwight Howard and Steve Nash to a starting lineup that already possessed Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol created a foursome of unique quality that's rarely seen in the NBA. Add to them an upgraded bench and returning veterans sure to be more comfortable in Mike Brown's schemes and the Lakers are, indeed, a super team ready to contend for the championship.
However, despite the strengths of this team there's always a need to put contingencies in place. Over the course of a long, grueling NBA campaign things often go wrong. And, typically, it's the team that can overcome their hardships the best that end up on top.
This is especially true when it comes to injuries.
This last season provides multiple examples, but let's quickly zoom in on the Miami Heat and the Chicago Bulls. The former survived an injury to Chris Bosh in the middle of their playoff run by changing gears and going small—ultimately prevailing to win the Championship. The latter suffered an injury to Derrick Rose, never recovered and found themselves bounced out of the first round.
Granted, there were other circumstances at play (not to mention one of those players came back to help his team), but the larger point remains: teams need to be able to overcome injuries if they're to survive in the NBA. While losing a player of mass importance has catastrophe written all over it, the team that can find a workable solution is usually the one standing at the end of the day.
So, while no one wants to focus on what can go wrong, it's important that coaches around the league have contingencies in place to deal with these scenarios. That includes Mike Brown when looking at his roster of high profile veterans.
What would the Lakers do if they lost one of their big 4 to injury? Let's explore...
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