The Los Angeles Lakers have embraced the Luka Doncic era, with early signs from training camp indicating the team has found what their superstar needs: defense. For the first time since 2017, the Lakers will start a season without LeBron James. His departure has allowed them to reshape a roster previously centered around him.
Instead of seeking a new superstar replacement, the Lakers have focused on building a robust defense around Doncic and Austin Reaves. After only two practices, the revamped defensive unit is already making waves. Reaves has highlighted Matisse Thybulle, Ziaire Williams, and Adou Thiero as key defensive talents. Having 7-foot-2 center Walker Kessler guarding the rim has made scoring against them challenging.
Reaves remarked, “Trying to score on Matisse and Ziaire, especially with Adou, and then Walker at the back, is not easy. It was tough dealing with them in practice.”
Reaves believes these changes could propel the Lakers towards an NBA championship. “Defensively, we’re going to be much better,” he said. Training camp optimism delights Lakers fans eager for success from this new roster configuration.
Doncic now leads as the franchise centerpiece. A five-time All-Star, he carried the Lakers to 53 wins, secured his second NBA scoring title, and earned first-team All-NBA honors during his first full season. However, success demands more than scoring power.
Last season, the Lakers ranked 20th in defensive rating and 22nd in blocked shots. They also struggled with rebounding. These shortcomings highlighted the need for size and defense during the offseason. The response was significant roster changes.
The acquisition of Kessler through a sign-and-trade with the Utah Jazz, along with perimeter defenders like Thybulle and Quentin Grimes, has given head coach JJ Redick strategic options. Williams’ addition further enhances the Lakers’ defensive lineup. Kessler, noted for being one of the NBA’s top rim protectors, believes the team is well-positioned to excel.
Kessler stated, “I think we’re going to be a nasty defensive team. People underestimate how good our perimeter defense will be.”
The Lakers aim to defend, rebound, and create turnovers while providing Doncic with offensive opportunities. Kessler feels aggressive front-court defense simplifies his role. “It’s easier to block shots when opponents have someone on their hip rather than a free path to the hoop,” he explained.
The defensive intensity is evident. Redick noted the physicality of Wednesday’s practice, highlighting Thybulle recording seven steals in just two days. Though it doesn’t guarantee top NBA defensive standing, the Lakers’ strategy reflects their commitment.
With James’ exit, the Lakers can focus on optimizing Doncic’s talents. This means offering shooting and secondary playmaking offensively. Defensively, it’s about having capable players for tough assignments.
Whether this plan thrives will only become clear as the season progresses. Despite being early days, Reaves sees potential. Should their defensive identity continue into regular seasons, the Lakers might enable Doncic to lead the franchise to new heights.
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