Lakers push for tighter defense as Redick demands focus
lakers-defense-doncic-ayton-injuries
Los Angeles, CA — December 17, 2025: Head coach JJ Redick wants more defensive urgency from a Lakers squad tied for the league’s fourth-best record, and star guard Luka Doncic says he intends to set the tone.
“You’ve got to get a little bit more, especially from the star players. That’s on us. That’s on me,” Doncic told reporters after recent film sessions highlighted lapses in transition coverage and three-point defense.
The Lakers enter Wednesday with the NBA’s 20th-ranked defense, sit 23rd in opponent fast-break points and 28th in opponent three-point percentage. During a rare schedule break created by the NBA Cup, coaches walked players through specific breakdowns. The first game after that meeting — Sunday’s victory over Phoenix — featured an eight-minute third-quarter stretch in which the Suns failed to score.
Ayton sidelined; Reaves still out
Center Deandre Ayton will miss Thursday’s contest against Utah because of left elbow soreness, the team announced. Ayton posted 20 points, 13 rebounds and two steals on Sunday. Guard Austin Reaves remains out with a left calf strain, while guard Gabe Vincent is listed as questionable due to back soreness.
Knecht sent to G League, responds with 30
Rookie wing Dalton Knecht was assigned to South Bay on Monday to log minutes during the club’s short hiatus. He had played just 56 NBA minutes over the past month. In his G League debut, Knecht scored 30 points and hit six three-pointers. “He’s going to help us at some point, but right now he needs to play and have fun,” Redick said.
Vanderbilt returns to rotation
Forward Jarred Vanderbilt rejoined the lineup Sunday for only his second appearance since mid-November. In 15 minutes, the 6’8″ defender collected six offensive rebounds, hit a three, and registered a block and two steals. “It’s a long season… my main thing was just staying ready,” Vanderbilt said.
Source: Hoops Rumors
