Lakers Discover Leadership and Momentum with Morris and Doncic

DENVER — The Los Angeles Lakers are finding their footing as they gear up for a playoff push, bolstered by both veteran experience and a fresh star addition. In a dramatic three-team trade earlier this month, the Lakers acquired Luka Doncic from the Dallas Mavericks alongside veteran forward Markieff Morris, who has been instrumental off the court.

Coach JJ Redick emphasized Morris’ vital role ahead of a recent matchup against the Denver Nuggets. “He’s been awesome,” Redick stated. “It’s very valuable to have a guy like that, a voice, an older voice, someone who’s seen it all in the NBA, someone who’s won a championship.” Morris adds a wealth of experience to a young Lakers team, positioning him as a crucial leader alongside 40-year-old LeBron James.

Entering the game against the Nuggets, the Lakers had recorded the league’s third-best defensive rating (106.8) over the last nine games, despite the absence of All-Star Anthony Davis, who was traded to the Mavericks. Nuggets’ coach Michael Malone credited the Lakers’ versatility, noting they could adapt their size on the court while maintaining strong communication. “I think just all five guys are operating on the same page,” Malone remarked.

In a recent 123-100 win over the Nuggets, Doncic showcased his return to form after recovering from a calf injury. He scored 32 points and secured 10 rebounds, demonstrating the killer instinct fans have come to expect. “I finally feel like myself a little bit,” Doncic said, expressing the joy of rediscovering his competitive spirit on the court.

Now 34-21, the Lakers’ recent performance, including a 14-4 record over their last 18 games, places them in a promising position as they prepare to face the Mavericks again on Tuesday. The matchup marks Doncic’s first opportunity to compete against his former team since the trade.

Redick, who played with Doncic during his stint in Dallas, shared insights on the adjustment for his new teammate. “It’s going to be a weird experience, but he’ll be fine,” he said, emphasizing the importance of familiar faces in supporting Doncic during this transition.

As the Lakers continue to build chemistry on the court, Morris’s presence is increasingly noted, with Redick praising him for boosting leadership and locker room energy. Despite his limited scoring ability—averaging just 3.7 points over recent games—Morris has reaffirmed the value of his experience during crucial moments. “There are so many different forms of leadership, and we need Kieff’s leadership,” Redick affirmed.

With the postseason within reach, the upcoming games will test the Lakers’ resilience and their ability to execute on both ends of the court. Their disciplined defense has allowed them to contend with top-tier teams. “We’re preparing for the playoffs, and everything we do over the next 27 games is crucial,” Redick concluded, signaling the urgency of their campaign.