Lakers Focus on Defensive Improvements Amid Luka Doncic's Accountability

The Los Angeles Lakers are intensifying their focus on defensive improvements after a lackluster stretch that saw them rank 27th in the league in defensive rating. Coach JJ Redick addressed the team's defensive struggles following their NBA Cup quarterfinal loss to the San Antonio Spurs and emphasized the need for more effort from star players, including Luka Doncic and LeBron James.

Doncic acknowledged the discussions with Redick, stating, 'We talked about a lot, not just that, but he was right. You got to get a little bit more, especially from the star players. So that's on us.' The Lakers responded positively in their subsequent game against the Phoenix Suns, where they limited the Suns to just 15 points in the third quarter.

Doncic noted that the team executed better defensively, saying, 'In Phoenix, we did a pretty good job.' Redick highlighted the importance of consistency in defensive effort moving forward, indicating that the Lakers need to build on this performance as they prepare for their upcoming match against the Utah Jazz, a team known for its offensive capabilities.

The Lakers are currently navigating injuries, with Deandre Ayton ruled out for the game against the Jazz due to left elbow soreness, and Gabe Vincent is questionable with lower back soreness.