“Not focused right now on the opponent” – JJ Redick outlines Lakers’ preseason approach ahead of Suns clash

Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick said their focus is not on the opponent in the preseason and he wants his players to focus on their preparation for the regular season.

The Lakers suffered a 124-107 loss against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday at the Acrisure Stadium. The Lakers will next take on Phoenix Suns on Monday at the same venue and they will look to tick the right boxes.

“We’re not focused right now on the opponent,” Redick said while talking to the reporters. “I think when you play a team like Minnesota, there’s a specific emphasis you have to make on your screens in terms of our four screening options.

“We didn’t emphasize that in the pregame meeting. That’s on us. But we’re more focused on what we’re doing versus the opponent right now. [H/T Jovan Buha of The Athletic]

Meanwhile, Bronny James scored two points, a rebound, and an assist during his 16-minute stay on the court, and Redick was impressed with the youngster’s defense.

“He can do some things defensively at his size that are really unique and I think can turn into a really disruptive defender. That manifested itself,” Redick said.

On the other hand, Anthony Davis and LeBron James were rested for the preseason opener. Redick confirmed that the talismanic duo will be available for the clash against the Suns.

“Yeah, it’ll be great for us. You know, we’ve mixed some lineups during practices and not just had purple versus gray, where it’s strictly just the starters. So, you know, we’ve had different groups play, and we’ll do that again tomorrow, but it’ll be good for those five guys to get some run together,” Redick said.

The Lakers will begin their NBA 2024-25 campaign against the Minnesota Timberwolves on 22nd October at the Crypto.com arena.