The Los Angeles Lakers faced a tough challenge against the Boston Celtics on Sunday at Crypto.com Arena, and it was clear that their offense struggled to find its rhythm. In a 111-89 defeat, the Lakers' shooting woes were front and center, hitting just 39.1% from the field and 30% from beyond the arc.
The lack of pace and urgency was evident, as they managed only 18 assists and a mere nine fast-break points. Boston set the tone, controlling the game's tempo and physicality, leaving the Lakers searching for answers.
Coach JJ Redick didn't hold back in his post-game comments, highlighting the offensive struggles. "We did enough defensively -- we were just awful offensively tonight," he stated, pointing out the need for a stronger presence in the paint.
Redick emphasized the missed opportunities to pressure the rim, especially in the first half. "There were opportunities, I think, to put more pressure on the rim.
We took 11 non-paint 2s. We were 13 for 29 on paint 2s, non-rim paint 2s, so that's not normally what we shoot.
Got some good looks from 3, we didn't knock them down. You gotta make shots in this league."
While the Lakers managed 42 points in the paint compared to Boston's 48, they fell short of their season average of 51.7 points in the paint per game. Rebounding was another area of concern, as they were outrebounded by 11, limiting their transition game and allowing the Celtics to score 17 second-chance points, compared to just six for the Lakers.
The game was a clear reminder that for the Lakers to compete at the highest level, they need to find consistency on both ends of the floor. As they look ahead, addressing these offensive inefficiencies will be crucial in turning their fortunes around.