Lakers’ Winning Streak Boosts Team Confidence Ahead of Home Matchup
EL SEGUNDO — After a rocky start to the season with a 1-4 road trip that left the Los Angeles Lakers at a 4-4 record, head coach JJ Redick has found encouragement in the team’s struggles. Following their home victory against the Philadelphia 76ers on November 8, Redick expressed, “It reinforced to me that I am a masochist… I’m actually more excited that we’ve had some struggles. This is why I wanted to coach.”
In stark contrast to their earlier woes, the Lakers have turned their season around, entering a crucial home game against the Utah Jazz (3-10) with an impressive 9-4 record and a five-game winning streak. Fourth-year guard Austin Reaves noted the team’s resilience, stating, “Nobody panicked… we went back to the drawing board and got better.”
During this five-game stretch, the Lakers have recorded the NBA’s best offensive rating, averaging 122.6 points per 100 possessions. Their transition defense, initially among the league’s worst, has notably improved, contributing to the team’s success.
The upcoming matchup at Crypto.com Arena, scheduled for Tuesday at 7:30 p.m., also serves as an NBA Cup Group Play game, with the Lakers undefeated in tournament action since last season’s inaugural win.
Both Rui Hachimura and Cam Reddish are under evaluation; Hachimura, dealing with a sprained ankle, is listed as questionable, while Reddish, who missed the Pelicans game with a peroneal strain, practiced on Monday. After Tuesday’s game, the Lakers will host the Orlando Magic and the Denver Nuggets as they aim to maintain their momentum during this critical homestand.
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