The Los Angeles Lakers are in a solid spot right now, sitting third in the Western Conference with an 18-7 record. That’s not just a good start-it’s the kind of foundation that sets the tone for a deep playoff push. With LeBron James still playing at a high level, Luka Dončić filling up the box score nightly, and Austin Reaves continuing to grow into a key contributor (when healthy), there’s real optimism in L.A. about what this team can accomplish.
But this is the NBA-we know that no contender stands pat. And the Lakers aren’t waiting around.
They’re actively looking to bolster their depth, with eyes reportedly set on Herb Jones of the New Orleans Pelicans. Jones is the kind of defensive-minded wing who could give the Lakers a serious boost on the perimeter, especially come playoff time when matchups tighten and every possession counts.
As they gear up for their next test against the Utah Jazz, the Lakers released an updated injury report that paints a mixed picture. Deandre Ayton is officially ruled out with soreness in his left elbow, while Gabe Vincent is listed as questionable due to a lower back issue. Maxi Kleber, meanwhile, is probable with a lumbar muscle strain-he's trending in the right direction, but nothing’s guaranteed until tipoff.
The more concerning update? Austin Reaves will remain sidelined as he continues to deal with a lingering calf injury.
That’s a tough blow, especially considering how important his energy, playmaking, and shot-making have been. But the silver lining for Lakers fans: both Dončić and LeBron are good to go.
When those two are healthy, the Lakers always have a shot.
Head coach JJ Redick, who’s still navigating the early stages of his tenure, hasn’t been shy about calling things as he sees them. After the Lakers’ 132-119 loss to the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Cup quarterfinals-a game where the defense simply didn’t hold up-Redick voiced his frustration.
“Very few teams don’t have something that you can expose,” he said. “We’ve consistently got exposed at the same things.”
That’s a candid admission, and one that speaks to a team still ironing out its identity on the defensive end.
The matchup against the Jazz isn’t just another regular-season game. It’s a chance for the Lakers to respond, to show they’re learning from those breakdowns and building the kind of habits that win in April and May.
With Redick demanding more and the stars locked in, all eyes will be on how this group responds. The road to the title is long, but the Lakers are moving with purpose-and the next chapter unfolds in Utah.