The Los Angeles Lakers may have started their preseason with a couple of losses, but for the Laker faithful, the final scores are far from the most important story. A new chapter is being written under the guidance of head coach JJ Redick, and the early signs point towards a team building a foundation of defensive grit, selfless play, and a renewed sense of purpose. While the box scores might not yet reflect it, the undercurrent of optimism surrounding this team is palpable, and it starts with their new big man, Deandre Ayton.
When the Lakers signed Deandre Ayton, the expectation from many was an immediate offensive explosion. So, when he finished his preseason debut against the Phoenix Suns with just one point, it’s understandable that some eyebrows were raised. However, to truly understand the significance of Ayton’s performance, one must look beyond the box score. In his 18 minutes on the court, Ayton grabbed eight rebounds, blocked two shots, and made his presence felt in the paint. His focus wasn’t on scoring; it was on anchoring the defense, a role he has embraced with a team-first mentality.
“I wanted to show the team I’m more committed on [the] defensive end than the offense,” Ayton stated after the game. “I’m not really here for numbers. I’m just here for whatever the Lakers really want me to do.” This is the kind of statement that should have Lakers fans excited. For a team that has at times struggled with defensive consistency, having a former number one pick fully bought into a defense-first mindset is a massive win. It’s a sign of a player willing to sacrifice personal stats for the betterment of the team, a cornerstone of any championship contender.
This sentiment was echoed by his teammates, most notably Austin Reaves. The rising star, who is quickly becoming a leader on this team, was quick to support his new teammate. “We, myself included, have to figure out how to help him a little bit more on the offensive end,” Reaves commented. “Get him the ball where he wants to have it, but that will come in time as we’ve had three practices together.” Reaves’ words are a testament to the burgeoning chemistry and supportive environment being fostered within the Lakers’ locker room. It’s a far cry from the narratives of discord that have plagued other teams, and it speaks volumes about the character of the players this front office has assembled.
It’s also crucial to remember the context of these preseason games. The Lakers have been without their two primary playmakers, LeBron James and Luka Doncic. Their absence has a significant impact on the offensive flow and, in particular, on a player like Ayton who thrives on pick-and-rolls and post-up opportunities created by elite passers. Coach Redick is well aware of this, expressing his excitement about the future partnership between Ayton and Doncic. The vision is clear: a dynamic offense where Doncic’s court vision and Ayton’s finishing ability create a nightmare for opposing defenses. The preseason is a time for experimentation and for players to get their legs under them. The real offensive firepower will be unleashed when the full squad is on the floor.
JJ Redick’s influence on this team is already apparent. He’s instilling a culture of accountability and a focus on the details. His calm and analytical approach is a welcome change, and his players are responding. Redick’s basketball IQ is off the charts, and his ability to communicate his vision is one of his greatest strengths. He’s not panicking about preseason losses; he’s focused on the long-term goal of building a sustainable winner. The development of a strong defensive identity, the integration of new players, and the building of on-court chemistry are the priorities right now, and in those areas, the Lakers are making significant strides.
So, while the rest of the league might be looking at the Lakers’ preseason record and drawing premature conclusions, the real story is happening behind the scenes. It’s in Ayton’s commitment to defense, in Reaves’ leadership, and in Redick’s strategic vision. The Lakers are building something special, a team that is more than the sum of its parts. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and for the 2025-26 Los Angeles Lakers, those first steps, though quiet, are pointing towards a very bright future. The wins will come, but for now, it’s the process that matters, and that process is one that should fill every Lakers fan with a sense of hope and excitement for the season to come.
