JJ Redick Demands Response from Lakers Following Losses of Anthony Davis and Max Christie
How the Lakers plan to adjust defensively.
Although Luka Doncic has yet to play for the Los Angeles Lakers, the team is entering a new era of basketball. While many anticipate the long-term benefits of this trade, losing Anthony Davis undeniably weakens their defense in the short term.
Both Davis and Max Christie, now part of the Dallas Mavericks, were vital contributors on both ends of the court. The Lakers (28-19) will need to quickly fill this gap in physicality, either through trade or internal development, to stay competitive in the Western Conference against teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder.
First-year head coach JJ Redick understands that the team will face an adjustment period following this dramatic trade, but he remains confident in his players’ ability to collectively rise to the challenge.
“We have to be excellent with our rotations, and we need to play team defense,” the former shooting guard and analyst told TNT’s Jared Greenberg during Tuesday’s game against the Los Angeles Clippers (28-21). “AD covered a lot for us, Max was excellent defending the ball. But it requires five players to guard in today’s NBA.”
Defensive concerns fade when the Lakers are firing on all cylinders offensively. At the time of writing, they were dominating the Clippers, hitting 13-of-28 three-pointers and shooting nearly 55 percent overall. Strong offense can force opponents to play faster, leading to turnovers and inefficient possessions.
LeBron James continues his high-usage role, heading toward another triple-double. Austin Reaves is slicing through defenses with his playmaking, Rui Hachimura is becoming more assertive on offense, and Jaxson Hayes is solid in the paint (six rebounds and two blocks). Still, Redick will need his players to mesh defensively.
Even when Luka Doncic enters the lineup, the Lakers won’t be able to solely rely on scoring to overcome obstacles. They rank 18th in 3-point shooting (35.6%). A well-rounded strategy is crucial.
JJ Redick will evaluate the team’s play and adjust the game plan to continue succeeding without Anthony Davis and Max Christie. So far, the revamped Lakers have been suffocating the Clippers on the road, leading 98-75 after three quarters.