Lakers Shift Focus to Defense Under Coach JJ Redick
In California, the Los Angeles Lakers are on a journey to elevate their game. Coach JJ Redick is urging his star players, including Luka Doncic and LeBron James, to step up their defensive efforts.
After a recent practice, Doncic emphasized the conversation they had with Redick. “We talked about a lot. He’s right—we need to give more effort, especially at the start of games,” he said. The Lakers currently hold a strong record of 18-7, ranking third in the Western Conference, but their defense tells a different story. They sit 20th in the league for defensive rating and struggle to contain opponent fastbreaks and three-point shots.
Following a disappointing exit from the NBA Cup quarterfinals, Redick took advantage of open practice time. He challenged the entire team to improve their defense through film sessions and focused drills. “We showed them where they need to tighten up,” Redick explained.
Their first test came against the Phoenix Suns, where the Lakers managed to win 116-114. They limited the Suns to just 15 points in the third quarter, showcasing a much-improved defensive mentality. Doncic noted, “We focused on ourselves and our defensive mindset. I think we did well.”
As they reviewed the game footage, it became clear what their defensive standards should be. “We should aim to be like that,” Doncic said, referring to their performance against Phoenix.
The Lakers face another challenge with the Utah Jazz next. Despite Utah’s current record of 10-15, Redick warned, “They know how to exploit mismatches and have great shooters. We need to be disciplined.”
Team updates show Deandre Ayton will miss the game due to an elbow issue, and Gabe Vincent is questionable with back soreness.
Historically, defensive capabilities have often been the defining factor for championship teams. A strong defense can change the tide of a game, as seen in past champions. Recent statistics support this, with teams that excel in defense often making deep playoff runs. For instance, in 2021, the Milwaukee Bucks clinched the championship with a top-tier defensive strategy.
As they aim to turn their record into a legacy, the Lakers understand they must prioritize defense. A strong defensive game is crucial—not just for wins, but to create a culture of discipline and excellence within the team.
For more on how defense shapes the game, check out the NBA’s defensive statistics.
