Lakers Need To Minimise Turnovers Against Warriors On Christmas Day

Add as a preferred source on Google

The Los Angeles Lakers are focusing on reducing turnovers as they gear up to play the Golden State Warriors on Christmas Day. This comes after a narrow 117-114 loss to the Detroit Pistons, which ended their three-game winning streak. Malik Beasley scored 21 points and Cade Cunningham added 20 for Detroit. The Lakers committed 20 turnovers compared to the Pistons' 12, prompting JJ Redick to call for more careful play.

Redick expressed surprise at the team's reaction to Detroit's defensive tactics. "We knew ahead of time that they were going to shock or blitz at times," he said. He noted that many turnovers were unforced, with players dribbling off their feet or passing poorly. Redick emphasized avoiding tight spaces and drawing defenders away from crowded areas.

The defeat against Detroit dropped the Lakers' record to 16-13, placing them seventh in the Western Conference standings. Following their game against Golden State in San Francisco, they will return home for four consecutive games. They will face teams like the Sacramento Kings, Cleveland Cavaliers, Portland Trail Blazers, and Atlanta Hawks during this stretch.

Redick highlighted the importance of not playing in crowded situations. "Draw the crowd. Don't play in a crowd," he advised. He pointed out that playing in tight spaces led to unnecessary mistakes against Detroit. The team aims to address these issues before facing Golden State.

The Lakers are keenly aware of how costly turnovers can be, especially against a formidable opponent like the Warriors. Redick's comments underscore the need for strategic adjustments and disciplined gameplay. The team is determined to improve its performance and regain momentum as they continue their season.