JJ Redick is embracing the challenge as the Los Angeles Lakers prepare to face the Dallas Mavericks in a highly anticipated matchup.
Luka Doncic will play against his former team for the first time since being traded to Los Angeles, adding extra significance to the game. Redick expressed excitement about the opportunity.
“There’s certainly a feel to it, of when to press and when not to press,” Redick said, per Dan Woike of the Los Angeles Times. “For me personally, watching Dallas’ stuff yesterday, watching some of their games… I couldn’t wait to come to work today. I can’t wait for tomorrow. And I’ll be excited for Wednesday.”
Doncic has been adjusting to his new role with the Lakers, averaging 19 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 5.8 assists in 27.8 minutes per game. Before the trade, he put up 28.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 7.8 assists in 35.7 minutes per game for Dallas.
Since joining Los Angeles, the five-time All-Star has played under a minutes restriction while managing a calf injury. He made his Lakers debut on February 10 against the Utah Jazz, scoring 14 points in 24 minutes.
Doncic saw limited action in the following games but delivered his best performance on February 22, scoring 32 points in a win over the Denver Nuggets. His role is expected to increase as he gets more comfortable in the Lakers’ system.
The blockbuster trade that sent Doncic to Los Angeles also involved Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris. In exchange, the Mavericks acquired Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick. The deal also sent Jalen Hood-Schifino and a 2025 second-round pick to Utah.
Davis, however, will not get the chance to face the Lakers, as he remains out with an adductor strain. The Mavericks have relied heavily on Kyrie Irving and their new frontcourt rotation since his arrival.
The Lakers (34-21) are fourth in the Western Conference, positioning themselves as a strong contender for home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs. The Mavericks (31-27) are eighth in the West and remain in the play-in tournament range as they adjust to their new roster.
Redick has been pleased with how his team has responded to big moments throughout the season. While he acknowledges the emotions surrounding Doncic’s return against Dallas, he remains focused on the bigger picture.
The Lakers will aim to contain Irving while maximizing Doncic’s ability to create offense. The Mavericks, on the other hand, will look to exploit Los Angeles’ interior defense with Davis sidelined.
With the matchup set for tonight, all eyes will be on how Doncic performs against the team that drafted him in 2018. The Lakers will look to make a statement, while Dallas hopes to spoil their former star’s night.
