The Los Angeles Lakers may have just provided fans with a thrilling preview of what they’re truly capable of, especially under the influence of JJ Redick’s new system. In their latest performance, the Lakers showcased a more cohesive and efficient style of play, one that emphasizes spacing, ball movement, and defensive intensity — all of which were on full display as Anthony Davis put on a dominant performance.

JJ Redick’s New System: A Game-Changer for the Lakers?

Since joining the Lakers’ coaching staff, JJ Redick’s impact is becoming clearer by the day. Known for his sharp basketball IQ as a player and his analytical approach to the game, Redick is helping the Lakers implement a system that maximizes their offensive versatility and defensive toughness.

• Emphasis on Floor Spacing and Ball Movement: One of the key aspects of Redick’s system is optimizing spacing on the floor. With AD as the focal point, the Lakers are spacing the floor better, giving their stars more room to operate while making it easier for shooters like Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura to find open looks. Ball movement has improved, with quick, purposeful passes creating more fluid offensive sets, reducing stagnant, isolation-heavy possessions.
• Utilizing AD in All Areas: Redick’s influence can also be seen in how Anthony Davis is being utilized. AD is now more involved in pick-and-rolls, high-post actions, and getting touches in different spots on the floor. This versatility makes him harder to guard and opens up options for the Lakers’ offense. Whether it’s rolling to the rim or stepping out for a jumper, Davis is thriving under this more dynamic system.

Anthony Davis Goes Off – A Sign of Things to Come?

In this game, Anthony Davis reminded everyone why he is one of the most dominant two-way players in the league. His stat line was impressive, but beyond the numbers, it was his overall impact on both ends of the floor that stood out.

• Offensive Dominance: AD was nearly unstoppable, showcasing his full arsenal of moves — from his deadly mid-range jumper to attacking the basket with authority. With better floor spacing, Davis found himself with more opportunities to operate in the post, while also getting cleaner looks from the perimeter. He was also heavily involved in transition, which played into the Lakers’ emphasis on quick ball movement and fast-break opportunities.
• Defensive Anchor: On the defensive end, Davis was a force. His rim protection was elite, altering shots and grabbing crucial rebounds. Redick’s system seems to encourage more aggressive help defense, which allows Davis to be even more impactful as a roamer, coming over to block shots or disrupt drives. His ability to guard multiple positions also gives the Lakers flexibility in switching on defense.

Other Lakers Thriving Under the New System

While AD was the star of the show, the rest of the Lakers’ roster is starting to thrive under this more modernized approach to the game.

• LeBron James’ Playmaking: With improved spacing and better ball movement, LeBron has more room to operate as the team’s primary playmaker. He is orchestrating the offense with ease, finding open shooters and cutting down on turnovers as the system promotes quicker decision-making and smart reads.
• Austin Reaves’ Emerging Role: Reaves continues to flourish, taking advantage of the Lakers’ improved offensive flow. He’s becoming a reliable secondary ball-handler and shooter, benefiting from Redick’s emphasis on finding open looks and exploiting mismatches.
• Bench Depth and Defense: Players like Rui Hachimura, Gabe Vincent, and Christian Wood are stepping up, particularly on defense. Redick’s system prioritizes energy and effort on the defensive end, and the Lakers’ bench is responding by contributing solid minutes and keeping the defensive intensity high, even when the starters rest.

Key Takeaways: A Glimpse of Lakers’ Full Potential

This recent performance feels like the Lakers are just scratching the surface of what they can achieve under Redick’s system. With AD playing at an MVP level, LeBron continuing to be the offensive maestro, and the supporting cast embracing their roles, the Lakers are poised to be a serious threat in the Western Conference.

• Offensive Flexibility: The new system allows the Lakers to adapt on the fly. They can run a slower, half-court set if needed or push the tempo in transition. Having this flexibility makes them difficult to game-plan against.
• Defensive Intensity: The Lakers’ defensive potential is just as exciting. With AD anchoring the defense, and the rest of the team buying into a switch-heavy, help-defense approach, this team is becoming a nightmare for opponents looking to score in the paint.
• Team Chemistry: One of the most encouraging signs is the improved chemistry. With Redick’s system encouraging ball movement and spacing, the Lakers look more in sync, with players understanding their roles and feeding off each other’s energy.

What’s Next for the Lakers?

If this game is any indication, the Lakers are on the verge of something special. JJ Redick’s influence is beginning to pay dividends, and with Anthony Davis playing at an elite level, the Lakers have all the pieces to contend for a championship. The key will be staying healthy and continuing to build on the momentum from this new system.

Lakers fans have every reason to be excited — the team is starting to show their full potential, and if this is just a glimpse, the future looks very bright.