The Los Angeles Lakers found a like-minded playing partner to meet in paradise.
The Utah Jazz are game for two NBA preseason contests at the Stan Sheriff Center, Oct. 4 and 6, as both teams launch campaigns that they hope result in a return to the playoffs. Utah was revealed Friday as the opponent for the Lakers, who’d previously announced their return to the islands. The NBA’s glamour franchise last held training camp here in 2007, against the Golden State Warriors.
"I’m excited for the university and the sports fans of Hawaii," said Rich Sheriff, arena manager of the Stan Sheriff Center. "It’s been awhile. We’ve had a great partnership in the past and we’re all excited about them coming out again."
Behind up-and-coming players like Gordon Hayward, the "Stifle Tower" Rudy Gobert and Derrick Favors, Utah exceeded expectations to go 38-44 in the 2014-15 regular season, 11th in the difficult Western Conference. Meanwhile, Los Angeles lost star Kobe Bryant and rookie Julius Randle to season-ending surgeries and struggled to a 21-61 record, second from the bottom in the West.
The Lakers, long considered Hawaii’s unofficial home team, last won the title in 2010. It’s been a steady rebuilding process since as Bryant has battled age and injuries. A bright spot last season was the emergence of rookie point guard Jordan Clarkson.
"I still think the Lakers, they’ve got the best, if not one of the best players in the world in Kobe," Sheriff said. "They’ve got some exciting young guys. Obviously they’re not coming off their championship years, but the people of Hawaii don’t get to see professional sports at that level live and in person. So, I think the interest will be great."
It is not known for certain whether Bryant, who will be 37, will return in time for the 2015-16 preseason. The Hawaii contests launch the Lakers’ eight-game exhibition schedule.
"I will imagine he will be here," Sheriff said. "Whether he’s at playing strength, that’s probably a question for the Lakers. I’d be shocked if he isn’t here at training camp. And I think, from what I’d heard, the prognosis was he’d be at full strength by training camp."
Tickets for the games will be sold at etickethawaii.com or by phone at 944-2697. Prices range from $18 to $94. They go on sale Thursday.
