bleacherreport
At least one NBA insider isn't buying what JJ Redick is selling. The Los Angeles Lakers head coach recently voiced his belief that his squad possesses the necessary talent—especially on the defensive end—to develop into a championship-caliber team by the 2026-27 campaign. However, that optimism isn't shared by everyone around the league.
When The Athletic's Sam Amick asked an anonymous scout from a rival team whether the Lakers had the right pieces to capture a title this season, the response was swift and blunt: "No."
Redick, speaking to reporters as training camp opened, expressed faith that this revamped roster would come together over the course of the season and emerge as a legitimate contender. "I really believe in our wing group," Redick said, per Amick. "I believe in their defense. I believe in their ability to make open 3s. (But) you don't become a championship team (in late September). You have to become one throughout the season."
This summer marked a shift in philosophy for the Lakers, who went all-in on constructing a team around Luka Dončić in ways previously impossible while LeBron James still held a dominant presence. The franchise made significant investments to acquire Walker Kessler, Quentin Grimes, and Sandro Mamukelashvili. Additionally, Austin Reaves was retained in free agency with a four-year, $185 million contract.
Kessler looms as the pivotal factor in determining just how high the Lakers' ceiling can go this season. He represents the first rim-running center Dončić has played alongside since joining Los Angeles. The 25-year-old has established himself as an elite rim protector over the past two seasons, though his durability is a concern—he appeared in only 63 games during that stretch.
Kessler's availability will be critical because Dončić and Reaves form a backcourt not known for its defensive prowess. Grimes brings a strong defensive reputation, although he struggled on that end during his tenure with the Philadelphia 76ers. Matisse Thybulle offers wing defense off the bench.
Historically, the Lakers haven't cracked the top 10 in defensive rating since the 2020-21 season, when they finished No. 1. Over the past two seasons, they haven't ranked higher than 15th. Furthermore, no NBA champion has finished outside the top 10 in defensive rating since the 2022-23 Denver Nuggets, who compensated with the fourth-best offense for a title-winning team in league history.
Key Analysis
The anonymous scout's skepticism underscores a broader doubt about the Lakers' defensive viability. While Redick's confidence in his wing group and Kessler's rim protection offers hope, the team's recent defensive rankings and injury concerns raise questions. The pressure is on Los Angeles to prove that their offseason investments can translate into a championship-level defense—and ultimately, a title.
Originally reported by bleacherreport.