JJ Redick had to make a decision involving LeBron James, Austin Reaves, and Luka Doncic after a poor run of form.
The Los Angeles Lakers ended their poor run of form with a big win over the Memphis Grizzlies. They got an important win over a Western Conference rival to protect their place in the standings.
Luka Doncic, a player who is worth more than $100 million, according to some, had a strong performance for the Lakers.
LeBron James was so impressive that even Austin Reaves was in awe by his performance. Of course, speaking of Reaves, he also earned a lot of praise from Lakers legend James Worthy.
But their combined excellence was not a miracle or even a coincidence. JJ Redick had to do something very important to get the wheels moving for their performances.
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According to Jovan Buha, the Los Angeles Lakers actually took some drastic measures before their game against the Memphis Grizzlies.
JJ Redick called a meeting with LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves to address their recent struggles.
The hope was to figure out a more efficient offensive schematic around all three stars.
“Redick called a meeting with the team’s three leaders — LeBron James, Luka Doncic, and Austin Reaves — Saturday morning in Memphis ahead of the final game of the Lakers’ four-game road trip.”
“The goal…was to discuss ways to optimize the offense around their collective shot creation and playmaking skills.”
Whatever specifics were discussed in the meeting definitely worked. The Lakers went on to win their game with ease, with the trio combining for 85 of their team’s 134 points.
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For the first time in a very long time, LeBron James has a teammate more important than him. It is safe to say that the Lakers’ playoff hopes rely the most on Luka Doncic.
He will need to deliver the signature scoring outbursts we saw from him in the playoffs last year if the Lakers want to go to the NBA Finals this year.
And given that the tandem of James and Doncic is arguably the strongest in the NBA, and they have a brilliant third option in Austin Reaves, the Lakers definitely have a chance.
But the last few weeks have been a good reminder that they are not invincible. Of course, Doncic is still very new, and getting acclimated to the roster.
And if he and the team can build chemistry with each passing game, the Lakers will definitely feel confident heading into the first round of the playoffs.
