Lakers head coach JJ Redick emphasized process over results after Los Angeles extended its winning streak to seven with a 133-121 victory against the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday at Crypto.com Arena.
“Well, we challenged the guys before the game,” Redick said, noting the team started 7-2 in the first quarter and matched that pace in their last nine games.
Redick acknowledged that the Lakers struggled defensively after the strong start, saying, “I didn’t think our defense was good for the last three quarters. It’s nice to sit here and be 15-4, but there’s a lot of slices of pizza left in the box that we can still get after.”
He highlighted Luka Doncic’s efficient performance, adding, “There’s a cadence right now to his game. He’s making it look like it’s normal in some ways. That’s a testament to how good of a basketball player he is.”
Austin Reaves also impressed with 33 points and eight assists, and Deandre Ayton contributed 22 points and 12 rebounds, showing “execution of what we’re trying to do on both ends has been really high,” according to Redick.
The coach addressed the upcoming challenging stretch, saying, “The next five games are all teams with an above .500 record. There’s the entire season is a challenge, and throughout the season there’s stretches that are more challenging than others.”
Redick explained the team’s approach to maintaining focus despite a strong record, stating, “We’ve tried to make a concentrated effort to try to get better even when we’re winning… It’s okay 19 games in to say, ‘We’re not where we want to be.’ That doesn’t take away from what we’ve done.”
Regarding Deandre Ayton’s health, Redick said, “He was in terrific spirits in the locker room. I’ve not gotten a medical update, but he was in great spirits. His scoring at a high efficiency is another weapon for us.”
The Lakers led 77-57 at halftime, with Doncic scoring 20 of his 34 points in the first quarter. Los Angeles’ balanced attack and efficient shooting helped maintain control despite New Orleans’ third-quarter surge.
Los Angeles now prepares for a Monday night matchup against the Phoenix Suns, while the Pelicans look to recover against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday.
