TITLE: Luke Kennard Ready to Boost Three-Point Volume After Deadline Move to Lakers
SLUG: kennard-to-increase-three-point-attempts-after-lakers-trade
CONTENT:
Los Angeles guard Luke Kennard said he plans to fire away from long range more frequently, following head coach JJ Redick’s request after last week’s trade deadline deal that sent the veteran shooter from the Atlanta Hawks to the Lakers.
The Feb. deadline transaction saw Los Angeles acquire Kennard in exchange for Gabe Vincent and a future second-round pick. General manager Rob Pelinka’s front office made no other moves, choosing to safeguard cap flexibility for the summer while adding a career 44.9% three-point marksman who is converting 49.7% of his attempts on 3.2 shots per game this season.
Redick and Kennard share Duke bond
Kennard and Redick, both former Duke University standouts, have crossed paths for more than a decade. “I’ve known him in passing for 10, 11, 12 years,” Kennard told ESPN Los Angeles. “I watched a ton of his film in college. I’m excited for the opportunity to play for him.”
Redick has already made clear he wants the nine-year guard to increase his attempts, even if that means taking tougher, more contested looks. Kennard welcomed the directive. “There can be times where you’re a little more aggressive,” he said. “That’s something they want me to do, and I’m excited for that. With the great passers and high-IQ players here, I expect to see some of the most wide-open looks I’ve ever had.”
Lakers still hunting floor spacing
Los Angeles entered the deadline searching for outside shooting. Rookie Dalton Knecht had been penciled in as a movement shooter but has struggled to meet expectations. The hope inside the organization is that Kennard’s presence will widen the floor for Luka Doncic, LeBron James and Austin Reaves.
Redick did not temper his enthusiasm, calling Kennard “one of the best shooters in the NBA.” The coach’s challenge now is to convert that accuracy into greater volume as the Lakers push toward the postseason.
Source: LakersNation.com
