Lakers' Luka Dončić Sheds Defensive Liability Label, Impresses Coach JJ Redick

Redick praises Dončić's improved defense as Lakers surge to third seed in the West

Mar. 20, 2026 at 5:05am

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Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Dončić has long been known as an elite scorer but questionable defender. However, that narrative is starting to shift as Dončić's defensive effort and impact have drawn praise from coach JJ Redick. Redick noted that when Dončić is switched onto the ball, he is allowing under 0.9 points per possession, placing him among the team's most effective perimeter defenders. Dončić's increased activity, physicality, and execution on the defensive end have helped the Lakers improve on that end of the floor, contributing to their recent 11-1 stretch that has them firmly in the third seed in the Western Conference.

Why it matters

Luka Dončić's defensive struggles have been a concern since he entered the league, especially after being targeted by the Boston Celtics in the 2024 Finals. His improved defense is a key part of the Lakers' recent turnaround, as they have shifted from an offense-heavy team to one that is more balanced on both ends of the floor.

The details

Redick highlighted specific defensive metrics to illustrate Dončić's improvement, noting that he is allowing under 0.9 points per possession when switched onto the ball, which is among the best on the team's perimeter. Dončić's steals, shots contested, and rim contests have all improved, reflecting increased effort and engagement on that end of the floor. Redick praised Dončić's ability to be "solid, engaged, [and] execute the team's defensive rules at a high level."

  • Over his last 5 games, Dončić's defensive rating has dipped to 111.7, an improvement from his season average of 113.8.
  • In his 60-point performance against the Miami Heat, Dončić added 5 steals, showcasing his two-way impact.

The players

Luka Dončić

The Los Angeles Lakers star who has long been known as an elite scorer but questionable defender, but is now shedding that liability label with improved effort and execution on the defensive end.

JJ Redick

The Lakers coach who has praised Dončić's defensive improvements, noting his effectiveness when switched onto the ball and increased activity in areas like steals and rim contests.

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What they’re saying

“Overall, he's been a good defender for us.”

— JJ Redick, Lakers Coach

“When he gets switched on to the ball – I don't know what the updated numbers are after the last three games – it's been under 0.9 [points allowed per possession]. It's been one of the best, if not the best of all our perimeter guys.”

— JJ Redick, Lakers Coach

“He's been more active with rotations and being physical with our switching groups. With him, it's to be solid, engaged, do our rules, and he's smart and can execute that at a high level. When he's fully on defensively, he can guard the basketball. We've seen him do it against everybody in this league. We trust him.”

— JJ Redick, Lakers Coach

What’s next

The Lakers will look to continue their strong defensive play as they push for a higher playoff seed in the Western Conference.

The takeaway

Luka Dončić's defensive improvements have been a key factor in the Lakers' recent surge, as the team has shifted from an offense-heavy identity to one that is more balanced on both ends of the floor. Dončić's increased effort and execution on defense have helped the Lakers cement their position as the third seed in the West.