The head coach explained Hansen's current situation: He is still a rookie and cannot play extended minutes yet; he needs time to adjust to the pace and physicality.

On October 28th Beijing time, before the Trail Blazers faced the Lakers, interim head coach Sprewell was interviewed, clarifying Hansen's playing time plan.

A reporter inquired, "Right now, your plan for Yang Hansen’s minutes is to let him play briefly in the first half, then decide on his involvement in the second half depending on how the game unfolds. Will you maintain this method with him moving forward?"

Sprewell responded, "Yes. After all, he is a rookie still learning to adapt to NBA competition. We can’t just let him play long stretches right away, especially since our team’s pace is so fast. So we have to be cautious. I know expectations for him are high, but at this stage, this role suits him best. We will adjust his minutes depending on his performance and the team’s needs."

The reporter then asked, "How do you think he has performed when on the court?"

Sprewell thought for a moment and replied, "Well, one thing is clear: during the Summer League, he looked more relaxed. But the intensity of regular-season games is completely different, and he still needs time to adapt. He is very talented, but he must adjust to the NBA’s speed and physicality. It’s a gradual process."

In the first three games, Yang Hansen has averaged only 5.7 minutes per game, scoring 2 points and grabbing 1 rebound per game. According to Sprewell, Hansen’s playing time is unlikely to change significantly in the short term.

Sprewell also spoke about Lowry, who was recently assigned to the G League to regain fitness. "Once he returns, he will bring many changes to the team. His ability to roll flexibly after screens and participate in both help defense and switches is valuable. But right now, the priority is for him to recover and be ready to play. I think he’s almost there, and sending him to the G League to get game rhythm is a good move."