The Lakers took today off.

Coach Phil Jackson hoped it would give them a chance to relax after a difficult stretch of nine games in 15 days, a span in which it was obvious that they were growing more fatigued by the day. They lacked their usual spark during losses Friday to the Denver Nuggets and Sunday to the Phoenix Suns. They bounced back by beating the Memphis Grizzlies on Tuesday, but were far from flawless during their 10-point victory.

When asked late Tuesday night what he wants his players to think about as they prepare for Friday’s game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Jackson said, “Nothing. I want them to take the day off and just enjoy a day. They can do whatever they want. Read books to their children. Whatever they do.”