At this early stage in the 2026-2027 season, the Los Angeles Lakers have looked like contenders. It’s safe to say that Luka Doncic has done most of the heavy lifting. His numbers have been amazing so far, averaging 37-8-7 per game. It’s not far-fetched to say that he can probably average more than 35 points per game for the rest of the season.
However, whenever he sits down, the Los Angeles Lakers have been awful. While Austin Reaves is capable when Doncic sits, the rest of the team looks lost on both offense and defense.
That’s a huge problem for JJ Redick and the rest of the Lakers coaching staff. One bad example was their recent game against the Toronto Raptors. Doncic was subbed out with a couple of minutes left in the game, with LA having a 15-point advantage.
Then, disaster struck. The Raptors went on a run and got as close as six points. Redick had no choice but to put most of his starters in, including Doncic.
Bronny James checked into the game up 15
— House of Lowlights (@HouseLowlights)
The Lakers blew their lead in one minute
They had to bring the starters back in[pic.twitter.com/sQXuFMrfuA][November 2, 2026]
Redick’s overreliance on Luka Doncic at this early part of the...