Los Angeles Lakers are riding high after a statement victory over the Los Angeles Clippers, pushing their winning streak to five games and solidifying their position in the playoff race with a 37-21 record. While much of the spotlight remains on LeBron James and Luka Doncic, the Lakers’ success has been a product of a complete team effort on both ends of the floor. Doncic, in particular, praised the team’s recent defensive dominance.
After the game, Doncic spoke about what makes the Lakers’ defense so effective. “Everybody’s got each other’s back on the defensive end. If somebody penetrates, there’s always somebody there to help, and the rotations are really good,” Doncic said. “I think we’re just connected on defense. Everybody is fighting, and the communication is amazing. Those are the things that make a difference.”
The Lakers’ defense has held opponents to 10+ points below their season averages during this winning stretch—an impressive feat, especially considering they’ve been without two of their best defenders in Anthony Davis and Max Christie.
Doncic also reflected on what he’s learned while adjusting to this stretch of play. “The first thing I noticed was how connected we are on both ends of the floor. The ball is moving, and that’s the biggest thing I took away,” Doncic said. “For me, it was about finding my fit within a different style of basketball than I’m used to. But since I’ve been back, they’ve let me be me. I’ve got a long way to go, but slowly, I’m starting to feel like myself again.”
Luka Doncic #77 of the Los Angeles Lakers plays the Denver Nuggets in the first quarter at Ball Arena.
JJ Redick’s defensive adjustments paying off
One key factor behind the Lakers’ defensive resurgence has been the adjustments made by head coach JJ Redick. He has emphasized a defensive scheme that prioritizes help defense and quick rotations, ensuring that no gaps go unaddressed. By leaning into a switching strategy that capitalizes on the Lakers’ size and versatility, Redick has minimized mismatches that opposing teams would typically exploit.
Another major focus has been transition defense. Redick has instilled a commitment to getting back quickly and preventing easy fast-break points, an area where the Lakers struggled earlier in the season. Additionally, the team has improved in defensive rebounding, limiting opponents’ second-chance opportunities and maintaining a strong interior presence.
Redick’s coaching philosophy has fostered a culture of defensive accountability, and the results speak for themselves. Even without Davis, the Lakers have managed to hold opponents below their NBA season scoring averages, proving that their defensive identity remains intact.
Role players stepping up in Davis’ absence
With Davis sidelined, the Lakers have relied on a collective effort to maintain their defensive edge. Jaxson Hayes and Christian Wood have played crucial roles in protecting the rim, contesting shots, and bringing physicality inside. Hayes, in particular, has embraced increased minutes, showcasing his ability to switch onto perimeter players while still holding his ground in the paint.
On the wings, Jarred Vanderbilt and Rui Hachimura have embraced their roles as primary defenders, taking on difficult matchups against elite scorers. Vanderbilt’s versatility has allowed the Lakers to switch seamlessly on defense, while his ability to guard multiple positions has been instrumental in minimizing the impact of Davis’ absence.
Additionally, Austin Reaves—known more for his offensive contributions—has stepped up defensively, contesting shots, making key rotations, and adding intensity on that end of the floor. The Lakers’ defense has thrived on its ability to communicate and rotate seamlessly, ensuring that every player remains locked in on every possession. This cohesion has been instrumental in limiting opponents’ scoring output and disrupting their offensive rhythm.
