Los Angeles Lakers fans can finally point to hard evidence regarding one popular fan theory floating around on the internet.
On Saturday, the Lakers went on the road to face the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum in Memphis, Tenn. Grizzlies point guard Ja Morant was available for the contest, marking his first game back after missing six games due to a hamstring strain.
Speaking to reporters before the game, Lakers head coach JJ Redick was asked about the idea that opposing players, like Morant, put in extra effort to suit up against the Lakers. Rather than dismiss the notion, Redick leaned into it.
Redick revealed that he actually had his analytics team look into that idea earlier this season. According to his staff, opposing players are available to play against the Lakers at an NBA-best rate.
“I think it’s like 86% of [opposing] payroll has been available to [play] us this year, which is by far No. 1 in the league,” Redick told reporters.
While Redick did not divulge the process behind getting the data, it’s hardly surprising that most players would want to suit up against the league’s most famous team.
The Lakers’ popularity also equates to the squad being featured most on national television. Players looking to impress friends and family on a national stage usually have extra incentive to shrug off injuries when playing the Lakers.
Morant did his best to impress in his return Saturday, tallying 22 points, 8 rebounds, and 10 assists for the Grizzlies. But the Lakers still left Memphis with a 134-127 win.
