Is Lakers' Coach JJ Redick really worried about the team's on-court chemistry? That's the question on everyone's mind, especially with a packed preseason schedule. Redick, however, seems less concerned than the media, as revealed in a recent Los Angeles Times article.
When questioned about the impact of the Lakers' busy six-game preseason, Redick didn't hold back. He wondered why the reporters were so focused on the issue, stating, "You guys are really harping on this."
So, is it a problem or not? Redick clarified, "And I’m not being combative right now... These are the cards that we were dealt. I sure would like everybody to be healthy.”
Despite the challenges, the Lakers managed to defeat the Golden State Warriors 126-116 at Crypto.com Arena, even without key players like LeBron James (sidelined with sciatica), Luka Doncic, and Marcus Smart (due to achilles tendinopathy).
The Lakers are facing a demanding schedule with three more preseason games: Tuesday in Phoenix, Wednesday in Las Vegas against the Dallas Mavericks, and Friday at home against the Sacramento Kings. That's four games in just six days!
Redick acknowledged that the Lakers' organization chose to play the maximum six preseason games allowed by the NBA. He added, "It’s something to be discussed I think going forward... I think it’s awesome...I recognize that there’s Lakers fans all over the world that maybe don’t get the chance to see us play." He hopes for a better balance in the future, with more practice time and less travel, and the possibility of international games.
Redick also noted that practices are more beneficial for team building than preseason games. He stated, "I think more practices would be beneficial... You don’t have a lot of days anymore and to try to cram six games in there [and] four games in six nights, it’s significantly difficult.”
In the third preseason game, Austin Reaves scored 21 points, Dalton Knecht had 16, Rui Hachimura also scored 16, and Deandre Ayton contributed 14 points, eight rebounds, and five assists.
Redick mentioned that Smart is expected to play in "two games this week."
But here's where it gets controversial... The Lakers are prioritizing fan engagement and exposure by playing more games. Is this the right approach, even if it means less practice time and potentially less on-court chemistry? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments!
