Entering the 1999-00 season, the Los Angeles Lakers were determined to take the next step toward elite status as NBA champions. While Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant continued to develop their chemistry, head coach Phil Jackson and general manager Mitch Kupchak put together a supporting cast filled with savvy veterans.
These role players often stepped up during various stages of the season, as Bryant and O’Neal drew the bulk of the attention from opponents. With the triangle offense implemented, shooters spaced out the floor and allowed the motions of their schemes to speak for themselves.
On this day in Lakers history, one particular veteran proved to be the difference in a playoff tuneup.