The Los Angeles Lakers’ struggles from beyond the arc have once again come under scrutiny, with veteran guard JJ Redick highlighting the team’s ongoing difficulties in three-point shooting. As one of the league’s most reliable shooters during his career, Redick’s perspective adds weight to concerns that the Lakers’ perimeter woes have become a defining issue this season. This recurring problem continues to hinder the team’s offensive flow and raises questions about adjustments needed to improve their spacing and scoring efficiency.
Lakers Struggle from Beyond the Arc as Three-Point Shooting Declines
The Lakers have seen a noticeable dip in their perimeter efficiency this season, with three-point shooting numbers slipping well below league averages. According to JJ Redick, this decline is not just a momentary lapse but a growing pattern that’s increasingly hurting their offensive flow. Their inability to consistently convert from downtown has allowed opposing defenses to pack the paint, limiting the Lakers’ ability to capitalize inside the arc.
Several factors contribute to this slide, including a lack of reliable shooters finding rhythm and forced attempts under pressure. Below is a snapshot of the Lakers’ three-point shooting stats over their last five games:
| Game | 3PM | 3PA | 3P % |
|---|---|---|---|
| vs. Clippers | 6 | 21 | 28.6% |
| vs. Warriors | 5 | 19 | 26.3% |
| vs. Suns | 7 | 23 | 30.4% |
| vs. Nuggets | 4 | 18 | 22.2% |
| vs. Mavericks | 3 | 16 | 18.8% |
Redick emphasizes that overcoming this issue requires more than just practice repetition. It calls for strategic changes, such as:
- Enhancement in ball movement to create open looks
- Better shot selection through patient offensive sets
- Integration of players who can stretch the floor effectively
Without addressing these core challenges, the Lakers risk falling further behind in one of the NBA’s most critical facets of offense.
JJ Redick Analyzes Root Causes Behind Lakers’ Perimeter Scoring Woes
JJ Redick pointed to a combination of factors that have contributed to the Lakers’ ongoing struggles from beyond the arc. He underscored the lack of consistent catch-and-shoot opportunities, noting how the offense often stalls without proper ball movement and spacing. “When you don’t have shooters ready to fire and the ball isn’t moving quickly, those open looks just don’t come,†Redick explained. He also highlighted how defensive pressure on key perimeter players has forced rushed and contested attempts, further dragging down the team’s overall efficiency from three-point range.
Additionally, Redick emphasized the importance of chemistry and confidence, which appear to be waning among the Lakers’ shooters this season. He suggested that more emphasis on purposeful off-ball movement and increased pace might reignite their perimeter scoring. Below is a quick snapshot of the Lakers’ recent 3-point shooting stats compared to league averages:
| Team | 3P% | 3PA per Game |
|---|---|---|
| Lakers | 32.1% | 27.4 |
| League Average | 35.8% | 34.9 |
Strategies and Adjustments Needed to Revitalize Lakers’ Three-Point Efficiency
To reverse the Lakers’ persistent struggles beyond the arc, a combination of tactical shifts and player development must be prioritized. Increasing off-ball movement to create cleaner, uncontested looks is essential. The team should emphasize dynamic screens and sharp cuts to loosen defenses, allowing shooters to find open space. Additionally, incorporating more pick-and-pop actions with versatile big men can diversify the offensive sets, forcing opponents to respect the Lakers’ perimeter threats.
On the personnel front, targeted shooting drills tailored to individual player weaknesses can boost confidence and consistency. Coaches might also consider adjusting rotation patterns to maximize minutes for those demonstrating reliable shooting in practice and games. The following table highlights key areas for improvement alongside potential corrective actions:
| Issue | Proposed Adjustment | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Low shooting percentages from role players | Focused shooting drills and confidence building | Improved FG% & floor spacing |
| Predictable offensive sets | Introduce varied pick-and-pop and movement plays | Better defensive disruption, more open looks |
| Limited off-ball screens | Increase screen usage to free shooters | Higher quality shot attempts |
Final Thoughts
As the Lakers continue to struggle from beyond the arc, the team’s inability to consistently convert three-point opportunities remains a glaring issue that must be addressed. JJ Redick’s recent observations highlight a persistent weakness that has contributed to Los Angeles’ inconsistent performances this season. Moving forward, both coaching adjustments and player development will be crucial if the Lakers hope to overcome their perimeter shooting woes and return to championship contention.
