Luke Kennard started at point guard for the Los Angeles Lakers in their recent game against the Dallas Mavericks. This followed injuries to Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
Kennard’s Triple-Double in Shorthanded Loss
Lakers head coach JJ Redick officially began the team’s late-season stretch without Doncic and Reaves on Sunday. Both are out for the rest of the regular season after suffering major injuries during Thursday’s loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Doncic sustained a Grade 2 left hamstring strain, while Reaves was diagnosed with a Grade 2 left oblique strain.
With four games left on the schedule, their absences loom large for Los Angeles. The shorthanded Lakers dropped their second straight game, falling to the Dallas Mavericks 134-128.
Redick addressed an intriguing change he made in his backcourt rotation after the game. LeBron James was expected to assume primary ball-handling duties, but Redick instead started sharpshooter Luke Kennard at point guard.
The 29-year-old recorded his first career triple-double with 15 points, a career-high 16 rebounds and 11 assists. This unconventional shift worked in stretches.
Redick Praises Kennard’s Adaptability
Redick credited Kennard for his adaptability, explaining his approach after the game. He said they talked a lot about simplifying the initial play call and getting into second actions. Redick felt the guys did a really good job of that overall.
Redick also noted the need to figure out who can be the second ball-handler. He thought Kennard did some amazing things, while also acknowledging that 41 minutes is too much for him.
James still excelled in a hybrid role, finishing with a team-high 30 points and 15 assists. The short-handed Lakers competed well but could not contain Cooper Flagg. The Rookie of the Year frontrunner erupted for 45 points and nine rebounds.
Lakers Face Thunder Again
Los Angeles faces the Thunder again on Tuesday. Redick’s point guard decision remains a key storyline to watch.