The Los Angeles Lakers, sitting at 17-7 in the early stages of the 2025-26 season, remain fourth in the Western Conference but continue to grapple with alarming defensive numbers. Following Tuesday’s 132-112 Emirates NBA Cup quarterfinal loss to the San Antonio Spurs at Crypto.com Arena, LeBron James acknowledged that the team’s perimeter issues must be addressed quickly.
Perimeter and transition problems
Overall, the Lakers rank 21st in defensive rating. Specific metrics paint an even bleaker picture: they are the league’s fifth-worst team at defending the three-point line, stand 24th in opponent points off turnovers, and sit 23rd in opponent fast-break points. Since James returned to the lineup on Nov. 18, those figures have dipped further—28th in defensive rating, and last in both opponent three-point percentage and fast-break points allowed.
James: “Five guys on a string”
After the defeat to San Antonio, James said improved communication is the first step. “It’s about five guys being on a string,” he explained. “You can’t stop a team individually. Communication has to be at an all-time high, letting guys know what’s going on behind you.”
James added that the Spurs exploited L.A.’s weakness with multiple speedy ball-handlers. “They have six or seven guys who can break you down off the dribble. Some are stronger, some are faster, some are quicker ball handlers. They got the best of us,” he said.
Early-season optimism
Despite the defensive slide, James insisted there is time to course-correct. “We’re still young in the season,” he noted. “First, we have to get back in transition—we can’t give up as many transition points as we did tonight—and then contain guys off the dribble. More film, more communication, and ultimately helping each other out.”
Roster construction challenges
The Lakers’ perimeter speed has been questioned throughout the campaign. Building around Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and James—none of whom currently deliver positive defensive value—requires nearly flawless support pieces, something head coach JJ Redick has yet to assemble. Rich Paul, James’ agent, recently said the roster as constructed is not a championship contender.
The Lakers posted a 4-0 record in Emirates NBA Cup group play but were eliminated by San Antonio, who scored 132 points without injured star Victor Wembanyama. Even with a strong win–loss record, L.A.’s defensive lapses continue to fuel doubts about its postseason ceiling—a conversation James believes is premature.
Source: Lakers Nation
