One LA Lakers player isn’t too concerned about the weak defense from their team, thanks to Luka Doncic and LeBron James.
The Los Angeles Lakers managed to get a big win over the Utah Jazz to go 19-7 for the season. However, one thing became very clear during their game – their defense is nonexistent.
The Lakers allowed one of the weakest teams in the NBA to score 135 points against them. And that is a big problem, given how important defense is during the playoffs. But one Lakers star has an explanation.
Marcus Smart says LA Lakers offensive star power could be reason for defensive complacency
Marcus Smart spoke to reporters after the LA Lakers beat the Utah Jazz. Addressing the concern about their defense, Smart made an interesting point while claiming he was trying to fix the mistakes.
He believes that the presence of stars like Luka Doncic and LeBron James, who are offensive machines, creates a sense of complacency on defense, as they know they can outscore the other team.
“We have a lot of star power offensively. In this game, let’s just call it what it is: offense is what people want to see. That’s the name of the game,” said Smart.
“It is tough defensively, sometimes. That’s why when I’m in the starting lineup, I’m picking up guys full court. The toughest team sets the rules, and I’m trying to set the rules early for us.
“It doesn’t always work out that way, but in a perfect world, it will,” Smart added. “I gotta continue to do my job. Hopefully, the guys follow.
“We have a lot of star power offensively, so sometimes it is difficult because we can score the ball. We wish it weren’t that way. We gotta continue to get better.”
LA Lakers wasting generational offensive duo with no help
The Los Angeles Lakers are squandering an opportunity most teams would give up their entire future for. To have Luka Doncic and LeBron James, not to mention Austin Reaves, on the same team and not be a title contender has to be considered front office malpractice.
The answer here is simple – the Lakers need wing depth. It is time for Lakers President Rob Pelinka to get on the phone and start making some trades for two-way wing players.
Two-way wing players are the most crucial player profile for any team with championship aspirations. And without them, it is nearly impossible to win a title.
This is a golden ticket that the Lakers are seemingly content with letting slip through their fingers, which is why fan frustration is reaching a fever pitch.
Read More: Ex-Lakers star suggests current squad don’t respect LeBron James enough
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
