Lakers Confront Turnover Woes Despite Strong Start
The Los Angeles Lakers are 2-0 to start the season, but an alarming number of turnovers, particularly from stars Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, remains a primary concern for the team.
The Los Angeles Lakers have begun the season with a perfect 2-0 record, securing wins against the Golden State Warriors and the Los Angeles Clippers. However, a significant issue from their preseason games has carried over: turnovers. The team committed 18 turnovers in their season opener and followed that with 21 against the Clippers, directly leading to 29 points for their opponents.
Guard Austin Reaves acknowledged the team's ball security issues, stating, "We know the turnovers are a problem. We'll continue to work at it, continue to get better at it." He personally contributed six turnovers in the game against the Clippers, admitting it felt like more.
Star guard Luka Doncic also recognized his role in the team's struggles, recording a career-high 11 turnovers in the same game. "We have a lot of room left to improve," Doncic said. "Obviously, my game was terrible. But we are 2-0. Not playing a great game by me and AR, we have a lot of room left [to grow], so it’s very exciting news, honestly."
Despite the high turnover numbers, the Lakers have managed to win their first two games, scoring an average of 126 points per game and shooting over 57% from the field. This suggests that their offensive efficiency can compensate for ball security issues, at least temporarily. Coach JJ Redick pointed to a lack of familiarity and trust in teammates as factors contributing to some of the turnovers, particularly with passes that don't reach their intended target. "The reality is a lot of the turnovers are just the pass in front of them," Redick explained. "It's building that over the course of the season to familiarity where guys are going to be in their spots."
The team's roster overhaul, which includes the acquisition of center Walker Kessler and Reaves's new contract, appears to be paying dividends with strong performances from various players. However, the coaching staff and players understand that continued success hinges on reducing giveaways, especially against opponents who aim to pressure Doncic and Reaves.