Key Highlights
- The Los Angeles Lakers have managed to secure a strong start to the season despite struggling with their three-point shooting.
- Austin Reaves and Luka Dončić are among the key players who have been significantly underperforming from beyond the arc, making just 29.6 percent of their combined attempts.
- Coach JJ Redick emphasizes the importance of chemistry and resilience in overcoming poor shooting performances.
- The team remains optimistic that their current form is temporary and that better shooting will come.
Lakers’ Success Amidst Shooting Struggles
Despite a significant portion of their 3-point attempts falling short, the Los Angeles Lakers have managed to secure a strong start to the season. The team currently holds a record of 12-4, tied for third-best in the NBA.
Austin Reaves’ Struggles and Optimism
Center stage at Salt Lake City, Austin Reaves reflected on his team’s ongoing shooting woes. As he sat in front of his locker after a victory over the Utah Jazz, Reaves admitted that his 20-plus-point games are becoming routine, but the team’s 3-point performance is still causing headaches.
“F—,” Reaves said with a chuckle before apologizing to the communication staff. His playful response highlighted both his frustration and determination to turn things around. “I’ll do anything to make a 3,” he half-joked, referring to his struggles from beyond the arc in their latest game.
Teamwide Shooting Issues
The Lakers’ shooting struggles extend far beyond Reaves. Three of their top shooters—Luka Dončić, Reaves, and Marcus Smart—are collectively making just 29.6 percent from three-point range this season. This performance is significantly below their career averages.
Dončić, who has struggled with his shooting, admitted to the challenges: “AR and I haven’t hit a shot this season.” His teammate, Reaves, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the team’s ongoing quest for consistency from beyond the arc.
Building Resilience
The Lakers have faced adversity head-on, focusing on building chemistry to compensate for their shooting struggles. Coach JJ Redick highlighted the importance of resilience and collective effort in overcoming these challenges. “I think it’s just chemistry,” Reaves explained, adding that the team’s high care factor and lack of selfishness contribute significantly to their success.
The Lakers have employed various strategies to build cohesion, including non-traditional practices like a recent pickleball tournament. They are also learning how to win short-handed, as evidenced by games played without key players such as DeAndre Ayton.
LeBron James’ Return and Impact
The return of LeBron James has provided an additional boost for the Lakers. Despite facing his second game back in Utah’s high altitude, which can affect shooting, James showed resilience with 17 points, six rebounds, and eight assists against the Jazz. “I’m in great shape physically,” he said, acknowledging that he is still adapting to the demands of a full season.
James’ presence and continued improvement are expected to help the Lakers navigate their current shooting slump. However, Redick remains optimistic: “We’re not worried about it.
We got too many good shooters. It won’t last.” The team believes that better performances from key players like Dončić and Reaves will bring them back on track.
As the season progresses, the Lakers continue to focus on maintaining their current form while working through their shooting issues. Their resilience and collective effort have thus far carried them despite the ongoing struggles from beyond the arc.
