Atlanta Hawks head coach Quin Snyder emphasized the Lakers’ physicality in Tuesday’s 141-116 loss at crypto.com Arena. “I think they were the more aggressive team. They were more physical,” Snyder said.
He noted the Hawks struggled to sustain intensity late in the game. “We just didn’t have that level of consistency against a team that was clearly focused and determined,” he added.
Snyder credited moments of execution but lamented the lack of consistency. “We saw stretches where we executed…we just didn’t do it on a consistent enough basis to have success,” he said.
The coach addressed the integration of new players, but stressed effort over familiarity. “This was more…are we up on our man? Are we pressuring the ball? Are we aggressive? I thought they were very aggressive with us. It was hard for us,” Snyder explained.
Regarding the post-Trae Young era, Snyder said defensive standards remain a priority. “This group, this is about this group…we had a lot of guys that came in and we just have to be consistently consistent,” he said. “It’s not enough that one or two or three or four guys are playing. We need five guys to be connected and be aggressive and disciplined on the defensive end.”
Snyder described the loss as situational but instructive. “It’ll be good for us to see it and internalize it…intuitively the guys in that locker room know we didn’t play on the level that we’re capable of,” he said.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker’s role and growth also received attention. “He’s such a competitor…he’s going to do whatever he can to help the team,” Snyder said. “The reason he’s getting some of those shots is because he runs so hard…he can impact the game a lot of different ways.”
The coach praised Alexander-Walker’s aggression and decision-making. “Finding himself in his offense, whether it’s in transition or movement…when you’ve got your shot, take it. When you drive it and they come, kick it out. That’s something he’s internalized and done consistently,” Snyder noted.
Atlanta’s leaders struggled to contain the Lakers’ balanced attack, which featured LeBron James with 31 points, 10 assists, and nine rebounds, and Luka Doncic adding 27 points and 12 assists. Deandre Ayton contributed 17 points and 18 rebounds, while Jake LaRavia scored 17 points for Los Angeles.
