After a 112-100 defeat to the New York Knicks on Sunday night, Luka Doncic and LeBron James expressed confidence in the Los Angeles Lakers roster while stressing that the team must keep progressing.
Doncic delivered 30 points, 15 rebounds and eight assists in the loss, and James added 22 points, five rebounds and six assists. Still, a difficult third quarter—an issue that has plagued the Lakers throughout the season—proved costly.
Star guards endorse current lineup
Speaking to Spectrum SportsNet, Doncic said he likes where the roster stands but acknowledged room for growth:
“I think we’re in a good spot. Obviously have some work to do. Today, we missed a lot of good looks. But I think we have a great group.”
Minutes later, James echoed a similar sentiment, pointing to ongoing injuries—most notably the absence of guard Austin Reaves—as a challenge to maintaining consistency:
“I like this group. But we gotta continue to get better. And that’s good. We should want to get better, it’s only Feb. 1. But we’re gonna continue to get better and better, what is it, 48 games now? It’s a tough Western Conference, it’s a tough league and … it’s been tough all season dealing with injuries and guys in and guys out. Unfortunately, our All-Star two-guard has been out for a minute, that’s a big piece for our team. So it’s just kind of hard to see what we really truly can be.”
Redick aligns with his veterans
Head coach JJ Redick, asked about potential roster changes ahead of this week’s trade deadline, praised the group’s effort and commitment to playing “the right way,” matching the tone set by his two superstars.
The Lakers remain entrenched in the Western Conference race despite extended absences by Reaves, James and several role players. Whether the front office pursues moves before the deadline or relies on internal improvement, Doncic and James made clear their belief in the current locker room.
Source: Lakers Nation
