Lakers and Luka Doncic Focus on Defensive Improvements

The Los Angeles Lakers are making a concerted effort to improve their defensive performance, a shift that is crucial as they navigate the competitive Western Conference. Coach JJ Redick emphasized the need for star players, including Luka Doncic and LeBron James, to enhance their defensive contributions.

Doncic acknowledged this accountability, stating, 'You got to get a little bit more, especially from the star players. That's on us. That's on me.' Despite holding the No. 3 record in the Western Conference at 18-7, the Lakers ranked 20th in the league for defensive rating and struggled in areas such as fastbreak points allowed and opponent's three-point shooting percentage.

Following a team meeting and film sessions highlighting their defensive shortcomings, the Lakers managed a strong defensive showing against the Phoenix Suns, limiting them to just 15 points in the third quarter during a recent 116-114 victory.

Doncic remarked on their improved performance, saying, 'In Phoenix, we did a pretty good job.' Up next for the Lakers is a matchup against the Utah Jazz, where Redick foresees another test of their defensive discipline, especially against players like Lauri Markkanen.

Redick expressed optimism that the team can build on their recent progress, noting the importance of disrupting opponents' offensive schemes.