Analyst Warns Luka Doncic & JJ Redick’s Lakers Cannot Escape Roster Issues

Luka Doncic and JJ Redick have been involved in the Lakers' offseason moves this year.

Analyst Warns Luka Doncic & JJ Redick’s Lakers Cannot Escape Roster Issues

JJ Redick and Luka Doncic (Image credits - Firstsportz)

The Los Angeles Lakers are entering a new era led by Luka Doncic. After joining the Lakers at the trade deadline last year, Doncic has been handed the keys to the franchise by LeBron James himself.

With James announcing his departure after eight years with the club, Doncic’s team is officially his now. Not only is he the best player on the team, but he will also be asked to do more as a leader as well.

NBA insider for ESPN Ramona Shelburne spoke about the Lakers’ offseason moves and roster changes.

I think one of the league reactions I had heard was really how much they gave up for Walker Kessler not necessarily because he wasn’t worth it, but just because they don’t have any assets now to improve that team. If you look at their roster now this is their roster. When you talk to the Lakers JJ Redick and Luka Doncic were very involved in helping recruit these players and pick these players…they have no flexibility. This is their team.

Ramona Shelburne on SportsCenter

The Lakers front office has been active in free agency after James’ exit a couple of weeks ago. They have made a number of signings led by Walker Kessler, Collin Sexton, Quentin Grimes and Sandro Mamukelashvili. Meanwhile, James, Marcus Smart, Jaxson Hayes, Luke Kennard, Deandre Ayton and Rui Hachimura all departed.

Lakers GM Rob Pelinka has done his best in building the roster around Doncic. The Lakers are trying to build a team similar to what the Slovenian had in Dallas two years ago when he led them to the NBA Finals.

Based on Shelburne’s statements, both Doncic and JJ Redick have been heavily involved in the Lakers’ signings. Redick has been impressive in his first two seasons for the Lakers. He joined Phil Jackson and Pat Riley in an elite list of head coaches to record 50 wins in consecutive seasons. However, his regular season success has not translated into postseason success yet.

RELATED
Josh Hart Joins Fans to Troll Tim Hardaway Sr.’s ‘No Podcast For Active Athletes’ Take – “I Agree”

Pressure is mounting on Luka Doncic and JJ Redick to deliver

When Luka Doncic fell into Lakers’ lap last year, they grabbed it with both hands. Not only did they acquire a player in the prime of his powers, but they also traded for a generational talent who can lead the franchise for years to come in the post-James era.

Luka Doncic and JJ Redick have been close for 10 years
Luka Doncic and JJ Redick (Image via LADEig/X)

However, after two seasons, the Lakers have just one playoff series win. The win came this year against the Houston Rockets in the first round despite Doncic’s absence. The 27-year-old missed the entire playoffs this year due to a hamstring injury.

With James gone and with Doncic and Redick entering their third season, the pressure to deliver a championship will be higher than ever next season. He is coming off his best season in purple and gold after averaging 33.5 points, 7.7 rebounds and 8.3 assists in 64 appearances.

Doncic won the scoring title and came fourth in the MVP race for his performances last season. The Lakers have tried their best and have heeded their star player’s demands in the offseason. Now it is up to the Slovenian guard to lead them to a deep playoff run next year.

Walker Kessler already knows his role alongside Luka Doncic

Walker Kessler is the biggest name to join the Lakers in the offseason. The Lakers signed him on a four-year, $130 million deal. Since joining the club, Doncic has not played with a center like the 7-foot-2 center.

Kessler is already envisioning his role alongside Doncic and is excited to play with a point guard of his size.

[Doncic] has such a big presence on the court. It makes it a lot easier for all four guys around him to do what they need to do. I can play defense for him, set great screens and get him some assists. It’s going to be a lot of fun. I’ve never played with a point guard of that kind of size and stature to where he’s just a matchup nightmare.

Walker Kessler in an interview with ESPN

Kessler made just five appearances for the Utah Jazz last season. He was held back by a left shoulder that needed surgery. But it looks like he is ready to go and the Lakers trust him for next season.

Also Read: