The Los Angeles Lakers have a fresh coach and a new defensive plan, but their struggles with transition defense remain unchanged.
Game Night Drama:
During a Sunday night game, the opposing coach’s decision helped the Lakers secure a win. Jazz coach Will Hardy called a timeout just as Collin Sexton made what could have been the game-winning shot. The Lakers narrowly won 105-104.
Jazz coach Will Hardy wipes away Collin Sexton's game-winner with a timeout.
Lakers win.
— Underdog NBA (@Underdog__NBA)
Transition Troubles:
The Lakers are giving up 1.2 points per possession in transition, ranking near the bottom of the league. When LeBron James missed a crucial three-pointer, Sexton grabbed the rebound and scoredโonly for it to be canceled by Hardy’s timeout call.
Los Angeles has consistently struggled with transition defense over recent years. They allow about 26.1 transition points per game this season, which is among the worst in the NBA. This issue persisted through different coaches: Frank Vogel, Darvin Ham, and now JJ Redick.
Fans wonder if this will ever change.
LeBron remains an offensive powerhouse but often lags on defense as he gets older, sometimes staying back to argue with referees instead of hustling back.
Back-to-back sequences where LeBron drives, doesn't get a call, stays back to argue, and the Jazz score in transition. Was LeBron's anger justified on both no-calls? Yes. It also doesn't matter. He needs to stop complaining and help the defense. AK
— Kamenetzky Brothers (@KamBrothers)
Age and Effort Issues:
LeBron is nearing his 40th birthday, yet even younger players like Anthony Davis are slow on defense at times. Opposing teams exploit this by running fast breaks against them frequentlyโeven after made shots!
While their half-court defense is solid thanks to Davis’ rim protection skills, he needs to be present at the basket for it to work effectively. The team shoots well overall but lacks offensive rebounds, ranking low in that category too.
It’s risky business when you give away easy points due to tiredness or lack of effort!
Maybe resting key players would help keep them fresh; however, leadership from stars like James and Davis is crucial for setting an example for others on getting back defensivelyโor they might just rely on another lucky timeout from an opponent!
