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JJ Redick says more practice this preseason has allowed them to focus on special situations

The Los Angeles Lakers are entering the 2026-27 season with a fresh roster after losing three starters—LeBron James, Deandre Ayton, and Rui Hachimura—while adding multiple new free-agent signings. Head coach JJ Redick emphasized that this preseason has allowed the team to refine key aspects of their game, particularly in special situations and execution.

With only Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves, and Jake LaRavia returning from last year’s lineup, Redick noted the value of extra practice time to build familiarity and chemistry among the new players. The Lakers are embracing a more aggressive defensive approach, which could pose early challenges as the team adjusts to a deeper rotation with up to seven or eight new contributors.

While the offense, led by Dončić and Reaves, is expected to show strength early, defensive cohesion remains a critical focus heading into Wednesday’s matchup against the Golden State Warriors.

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