Lakers' Wings Annoy Star Guard Reaves, Signaling Defensive Growth
Austin Reaves calls the defensive intensity from his wing teammates a high compliment, indicating a potential improvement in the Lakers' perimeter defense.
Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves has found the team's wing defenders to be a constant source of irritation during training camp, a sentiment he views as a positive sign for the team's defensive capabilities.
"They all annoy the hell out of me," Reaves stated after early camp sessions, referring to the intense defensive pressure he has faced. This level of disruption from his teammates is seen as high praise, suggesting that the wings are effectively challenging the team's star players.
Among the wing defenders contributing to this intense practice environment are Adou Thiero, whose athleticism Reaves noted as being among the league's best, and Matisse Thybulle, known for his anticipation and disruptive defensive plays. Additionally, Jarred Vanderbilt and Quentin Grimes are expected to bolster the team's defensive efforts, with Grimes specifically aiming to return to his earlier form as a strong perimeter defender.
Coach JJ Redick highlighted the reciprocal benefits of this approach. "It's going to be a healthy competition and it gets you better," Redick said. "It's going to make Austin better when Ziaire is picking them up full court every possession and Matisse is in the passing lane trying to blow things up. Adou, with his physicality…those guys are getting better from practicing that way."
The rigorous practices are also benefiting the defensive players. Thybulle, a two-time All-Defensive team honoree, acknowledged the challenge of guarding offensive talents like Reaves and Luka Doncic. "The importance of just being solid," Thybulle said when asked about lessons learned. "The best offensive players in the league, Luka being probably one of the best, changes pace so well. As I'm growing in this league, growing as a defender, learning when to change pace and go for steals vs. [sitting] back, [being] solid and [making] it more of a cat-and-mouse game as opposed to trying to be in every passing lane every single time."
As the Lakers prepare for preseason games, the "iron sharpens iron" mentality during camp is expected to translate into improved on-court performance. The team is looking to build on defensive improvements from the previous season, and the daily challenges presented by the offensive talent are seen as a key factor in that development.