The Los Angeles Lakers addressed their outside-shooting woes at the trade deadline by acquiring guard Luke Kennard from the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for Gabe Vincent and a 2032 second-round draft pick.
Kennard, 29, arrives with the league’s second-best three-point percentage this season, hitting 49.7% on 3.2 attempts per game. The Lakers rank near the bottom of the NBA in long-distance accuracy, making floor spacing a priority as they chase a playoff spot.
After Los Angeles defeated the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday night, head coach JJ Redick welcomed his former Duke protégé.
“I’ve known Luke for about 12 years, and I think he’s one of the best shooters in the NBA,” Redick told reporters. “I’m going to highly encourage him to shoot more and not turn down shots. An underrated part of his game is his ability to move, create second actions and keep the ball moving.”
Redick, himself a renowned shooter during his playing days, said Kennard will operate both from the corners and as an off-ball option coming off screens. Kennard’s off-the-catch precision is expected to ease defensive pressure on LeBron James, Anthony Davis and D’Angelo Russell, who frequently encounter packed lanes.
While Kennard adds immediate offensive punch, his defensive limitations remain a concern. Redick acknowledged the challenge but indicated the coaching staff will look for schemes that minimize mismatches.
The team has not announced when Kennard will debut for the purple and gold, though he is projected to assume a rotation role vacated by Vincent’s departure.
Los Angeles made no additional moves at the deadline, preserving future cap flexibility. League observers expect the front office to pursue Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo if he becomes available this summer.
Source: LakersNation.com
