Lakers Show Offensive Promise Despite Preseason Loss to Warriors

In a recent preseason matchup, the Los Angeles Lakers managed to score just 97 points against the Golden State Warriors. Observers might deem this a lackluster offensive performance; however, in the eyes of Lakers head coach JJ Redick, there were positive aspects to consider.

“I was highly encouraged with the shots we got,” commented Redick post-game. “It was when we didn’t trust our offense and got a little stagnant, the ball stuck. That was the beginning of the third quarter,” he added, noting a specific phase where the offense faltered.

During the third quarter, the Lakers scored only 19 points, with Anthony Davis securing eight points through isolation plays. Redick, while acknowledging the offense’s hiccup, viewed such moments as growth opportunities. “We didn’t play good offense that quarter. That happens sometimes and it’s a learning lesson for our group,” Redick explained.

The Lakers’ performance, while plagued by a low 27.5% conversion rate from the three-point line, showcased promising execution, particularly in the first half. According to Redick, ball movement and passing were significant, even if shots failed to make their mark. “Our execution, ball movement, passing, all that stuff… I thought it was great in the first half. We just didn’t make shots,” Redick remarked on the team’s efforts.

The game’s context also involved significant rotations, with the Lakers’ regular season lineup primarily playing in the first half. Younger players and members from the South Bay Lakers took the court in the subsequent quarters as the game progressed.

While concerns linger regarding the team’s ability to consistently execute a three-point heavy offense, Redick appears steadfast in his approach. This was the Lakers’ second game in the preseason where they struggled from deep, going 11 for 40 beyond the arc.

Last season, Russell Westbrook and LeBron James were among the few who surpassed the 40% mark in three-point shooting for the Lakers. The team faces questions on whether they can maintain efficiency while increasing their shooting volume.

As the regular season approaches, the Lakers remain hopeful of ironing out these issues in a competitive Western Conference landscape. The challenge will be to adapt to a new coaching system while striving for early wins to set a positive tone for the season. The coming days will be telling as the regular season games are just around the corner.