Teams don't commonly have an extended break during the NBA season. However, the Lakers are granted the gift of time, having four days between games.
The gap is due to the Lakers' elimination from the NBA Cup. Those games will be the only matchups on the schedule for Tuesday and Wednesday across the NBA, with L.A.'s next game set for Friday.
After Sunday's much-needed win, JJ Redick discussed the benefits of having this break in the schedule.
"Well, we haven't had a ton of practice time," Redick said. "But the reality is we are banged up. Even the guys that are playing every night are banged up. I would say tonight is the end of a very long two-week road trip. We've already had an 11-day road trip. Travel has been tough…I think you do have to look for these opportunities, and they're very rare, to give your guys two days off.
"Tuesday, it's not mandatory but you know, it'll be sort of a recovery, get what you need day for guys that need it. But heck, if somebody wants to go spend a couple of nights in Santa Barbara and relax, that's fine too."
This was such a classic coach's response from Redick. Extra days between games present more practice opportunities, but even he recognizes that some time away could prove more beneficial to his banged-up squad.
During this road trip, the Lakers played without LeBron James due to left foot soreness, Austin Reaves has missed five games dealing with a left pelvic contusion, and Jaxson Hayes is out recovering from an ankle sprain. That also excludes Jarred Vanderbilt and Christian Wood, who have yet to play this season.
So, a little rest and recovery can hopefully expedite their return to play, which will impact winning a lot more than a few practices without them can.
Redick certainly seems to know how to relax in California. A day trip to Santa Barbara to have dinner at a place like Silvers Omakase and then a nighttime walk on the beach sounds like a lovely way to step away from the NBA grind.
A perfect balance of rest, recovery and preparation could be the recipe for success and the best way to optimize Los Angeles' days off.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at@ECreates88.