Lakers head coach JJ Redick praised his team’s execution following a 118-104 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center on Friday. Austin Reaves led Los Angeles with 31 points, while Luka Doncic added 24 points and 12 assists, and Deandre Ayton posted 20 points and 16 rebounds.
Redick said, “The fact we got off to a good start for the first time on this trip, that group set the tone to start both halves… proud of our group and a much better defensive game for us.” He emphasized the importance of ball movement, noting the Lakers’ 28 assists, with Reaves and Doncic combining for 19.
The coach highlighted the team’s ability to generate open shots despite New Orleans’ defensive pressure. “Smart got some great looks and we’re confident with him as a shooter… really encouraging our bigger wings and DA to put early pressure on the rim,” Redick said.
Redick also addressed Doncic’s efficiency, noting challenges against elite defenders in recent games. “We’ve got to do a better job of getting the ball to him in the right spots… we’ll continue to work at that,” he explained, underscoring the team’s commitment to improving execution.
On the Lakers’ three-point struggles, Redick remained optimistic. “It’s a slow start from three… there are stretches of a season where you’re not making threes and stretches where you are… our guys will get there,” he said, recalling similar starts during his playing career.
Redick praised DeAndre Ayton’s performance and his ability to impact the game beyond scoring. “Toward the end of the game, he had the ball… our dynamic best players have to make the right decision and be unselfish, and I thought we did that for the most part tonight,” he added.
The Lakers jumped to a 65-52 halftime lead, fueled by an alley-oop dunk from Ayton set up by Doncic. Reaves, Ayton, and Doncic combined for an 11-0 third-quarter run, extending the advantage to 88-66. Despite a brief Pelicans rally, Los Angeles maintained control, closing the game with clutch free throws from Reaves.
Looking ahead, Redick anticipates the Lakers will have the full starting five available for Saturday’s game in Milwaukee. “You have to run offense, pass the ball, and take care of the ball… the dynamic nature of our best players is going to generate multiple bodies, and other guys will be the beneficiaries,” he said.
