Despite their scorching offensive start to the 2024-25 season, the Lakers are struggling in several key areas.
The Lakers Are 24th in Points Given up
While, the Lakers are averaging 116.1 points per game through their first seven outings, their defense has been lackluster at best. The Lakers currently give up more points per game than they score, allowing 118.4 points per game. The Lakers gave up an embarrassing 127 points to a mediocre Sacramento Kings in Game 3 and 134 points to the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 5.
While the Lakers are successfully defending the three-pointer, ranking 8th in the league, there's no excuse for being 28th in opponent shooting percentage. Although the Lakers are 10th in the league in shooting percentage at 47.2%, opponents are shooting 49.1%.
At times the Lakers have shown flashes of being a high-caliber defense, with D'Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves showing skill in cutting off drives into the lanes and staying attached to their defenders, the team has failed to apply pressure to mid-range jumpers. In short, the Lakers defense is far from performing at championship caliber.
The Lakers Bench is Underperforming
The Lakers' bench woes were on full display versus Detroit, as the second unit struggled to make an impact. Ranked last in the NBA for bench production, the Lakers bench is averaging a measly 18.9 points per game and the reserves could only muster 10 points against Detroit on Monday. Jaxson Hayes and Dalton Knecht each tallied just five points, failing to provide a much needed spark. With their bench continuing to underperform, it's clear that improving their depth chart must be coach Redick's primary focus moving forward.
The Lakers reserves have failed to secure the paint and block the lanes. Given their lackluster defensive performance this season, it's become apparent that the team must trade for another big man who can help to anchor the interior when Anthony Davis is out or focused on the perimeter.
If they continue to struggle with shooting efficiency and defensive movement throughout the season, the Lakers' chances of making a deep playoff run will become increasingly slim. It just goes to show that, while you can load your starting lineup with all-star talent, a deep bench is often the deciding factor in winning and losing games.
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