JJ Redick discussed the way to improve Lakers defense after slow start

On By Littum

In the early parts of this season, one aspect the Lakers have been undeniably poor at is defense.

LA currently has the fourth worst offensive rating at 117.9. They give up the fourth most points in the paint with 54.1 per game. game and is tied for most points allowed on fastbreaks with 19.3.

After a brutal loss to the Nuggets in which the Lakers gave up 70 points in the second half, JJ Redick discussed how the road to better defensive play requires an all-hands-on-deck approach.

“As far as the defensive stuff, and I told the group this yesterday, like we can point to what we want to point to,” Redick said. “Me and my staff will also take some ownership of it. Like it’s not just players not executing the game plan. It’s all of us. Like we’re all on the same team. We all want the same result. We want everyone to be a good defensive team. So we have to figure that out together.”

There isn’t much positive on the defensive end from this team, but what is clear is that Redick will continue to search for answers.

One of the biggest reasons Cam Reddish is starting is because he gives the team a better defensive player on the edge than what D’Angelo Russell can provide. When it comes to other role players like Gabe Vincent and Max Christie, their defensive ability will be what keeps them on the floor.

Of course, Jarred Vanderbilt would greatly help this team’s defense. Vando is an elite wing defender, but since he’s a few weeks away from another re-evaluation, the Lakers will have to make do without him for now.

Despite the abysmal defensive numbers, there have been signs of marginal progress.

Over the past two weeks, the Lakers have given up fewer points on fastbreaks, allowing 17 per game, which ranks them 21st in the NBA. Teams also score less on LA’s turnovers, averaging 18.3 per. game, which puts the Lakers just above the middle of the pack at 13th in the NBA.

Although going from the worst to the middle is not a great success, it is a step in the right direction. Considering how bad the Lakers have been defensively, they have to take their wins where they can.

You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88.