The Los Angeles Lakers closed March with a 15-2 record and a nine-game winning streak, moving clear of the Western Conference pack chasing the No. 3 seed. After Sunday night’s victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers at Crypto.com Arena, head coach JJ Redick said the surge belongs to every player who has stepped on the floor.
Health and Defined Roles
Redick pointed first to improved health. “It’s much easier when you have a consistent stretch of health to settle into roles and rotations,” he said, noting the roster had struggled to stay intact earlier in the season.
Standout Performances in March
The coach highlighted Luka Dončić, calling the guard’s month “as good as anybody I can remember in modern NBA,” while also comparing the stretch to peak runs by LeBron James, James Harden and Stephen Curry. Redick added that James’ two-way play and Austin Reaves’ return to full fitness were pivotal.
Contributions Across the Board
Redick ticked through the rest of his rotation:
- Centers Deandre Ayton and Jaxson Hayes “doing what they need to do” at both ends
- Luke Kennard and Rui Hachimura supplying timely outside shooting
- Jake LaRavia and Marcus Smart anchoring the defense
- Bronny James Jr., Jarred Vanderbilt and Maxi Kleber answering when injuries hit
“Our team is the reason we’re winning, because each guy has contributed,” Redick said.
Looking Toward the Playoffs
Redick acknowledged postseason rotations will tighten, but said the confidence that any player can be summoned and perform “is huge for this Lakers team.”
Milestone for Redick
The win over Cleveland also marked Redick’s 100th career coaching victory, an achievement he credited to both his players and coaching staff.
Source: Lakers Nation
