Lakers owner Jeanie Buss remains complimentary of Luke Walton but continues to dodge questions about his future as the team's head coach.
A late-night phone call between Lonzo Ball and Brandon Ingram after coach Luke Walton publicly challenged the pair to play with more passion for the undermanned Lakers helped spark a come-from-behind road win over the Mavericks on Monday.
Coach Luke Walton expressed concern over the Lakers "splintering" during the Clippers' 22-0 run in Friday's loss, saying the lack of camaraderie "can't happen."
The Lakers will have LeBron James, who will play Friday vs. New Orleans despite feeling sick, and Brandon Ingram and Rajon Rondo, who have seen extended absences because of injuries. The Pelicans will have Anthony Davis (ill).
Former Lakers coach Phil Jackson stopped by the team's practice facility, surprising current coach Luke Walton, who says he has kept in touch with his mentor.
LeBron James says Lonzo Ball, whose decision-making and active defense in the fourth quarter Friday night helped lift the Lakers past the Jazz, is starting to realize his potential on the floor.
