Lakers coach JJ Redick has identified defense as a primary focus heading into the 2026-27 NBA season, stating a need for improvement after the team finished 18th defensively in the prior regular season, despite ranking 12th in the second half. Redick credited assistant coaches Bob Beyer and Greg St. Jean for the team's mid-season defensive strides, but emphasized the need for a more consistent overall defensive effort.
Following a significant offseason roster overhaul, the Lakers are poised to improve defensively, a development that may defy some external perceptions. The acquisition of center Walker Kessler is expected to bolster the team's rim protection, an area where they ranked second-to-last in defensive field goal percentage at the rim during the 2025-26 season. Kessler, a proven rim protector in his first four NBA seasons with the Jazz, is seen as a substantial upgrade over Deandre Ayton at the center position.
Strengthening Perimeter Defense
While Kessler addresses interior defense, the team has also made strides in perimeter defense. Despite the departure of Marcus Smart, considered the team's best perimeter defender, the Lakers have added significant talent to their backcourt. Jarred Vanderbilt and Jake LaRavia, who were among the team's top perimeter defenders last season, remain with the team. They are joined by new additions Quentin Grimes, Matisse Thybulle, and Ziaire Williams, who are expected to provide upgrades over the team's previous perimeter defensive options.
Matisse Thybulle, in particular, has a history of generating turnovers, tying for the second-most steals per game in the league last season among players with at least 20 games played. He also led the league in steals and deflections per 36 minutes in 2025-26. Ziaire Williams also demonstrated an ability to generate deflections and averaged a career-high 1.4 steals last season. The presence of Kessler in the paint allows the Lakers' perimeter defenders to play with increased aggression. Furthermore, the offensive rebounding contributions from Kessler and newly signed Kevon Looney are expected to help the team secure more possessions.
Enhancing Ball Handling and Playmaking
Beyond defense, Redick also highlighted the importance of improving the team's ability to drive, dribble, and pass. With star guards Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves already on the roster, the Lakers possess strong ball-handling capabilities. The additions of Grimes, Collin Sexton, and Sandro Mamukelashvili are expected to further enhance these offensive skills. While the departure of LeBron James will impact these areas, the continued development of players like LaRavia and the addition of Cameron Carr are anticipated to mitigate this loss.
Explosive guard Collin Sexton is expected to bolster the Lakers' ability to drive, pass, and shoot, fitting well with the team's offensive objectives. The overall aim of these roster moves is to create a more well-rounded and defensively stout team, capable of competing at a higher level in the upcoming season.