The Los Angeles Lakers appeared to be heading toward a familiar outcome early against the Denver Nuggets: defensive breakdowns, slow rotations and an opponent capitalising on mismatches to build a commanding lead.
Denver surged ahead by 16 points in the first half, exposing the same structural issues that have plagued the Lakers throughout the season.
What followed, however, marked one of the most deliberate and analytically driven in-game adjustments of JJ Redick‘s tenure as head coach.
At halftime, JJ Redick implemented a defensive overhaul that was as bold as it was calculated.
The Lakers shifted into an aggressive trapping scheme designed to disrupt Denver’s offensive rhythm while shielding Luka Doncic from being repeatedly targeted on the perimeter.
The change altered the flow of the game entirely, fueling a 115-107 comeback victory and offering a glimpse of a more sustainable defensive identity.
Redick attributed the success of the adjustment to preparation and collective commitment rather than improvisation.
“I thought our guys’ commitment to the adjustment at halftime was great, and then the commitment to the work that’s required when you do put two on the ball. And look, my staff and I, our analytics team, this is all we’re doing right now. We’re trying to figure out what’s the best way for this team, with this group, to play defense. And you know, throughout the year, we’ve made adjustments in-game.”
He acknowledged that the approach may not always look conventional, adding, “We’re going to have to get a little weird sometimes.” The effectiveness of the strategy, however, was unmistakable.
A calculated defensive shift that reshaped the game
The revised scheme focused on aggressive blitzes and rapid rotations, allowing the Lakers to use their length while reducing the defensive burden on Luka Doncic.
Rather than chasing guards through screens, Doncic was positioned to read the floor, close passing lanes and secure rebounds. The result was one of his most complete performances: 38 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists, with every rebound coming on the defensive end.
Doncic welcomed the emphasis on rebounding as part of his defensive contribution.
“Yeah, just trying to get more rebounds. Obviously, I’m a guard, but lately, I haven’t been having a lot of rebounds. If I get some more rebounds, that helps my team. So, I just wanted to get some more rebounds.”
The impact extended well beyond Doncic‘s stat line. Jamal Murray, Denver’s primary offensive engine in the absence of Nikola Jokic, was effectively neutralised after halftime.
The Nuggets scored 37 points in the first quarter but managed just 36 points across the entire second half, with Murray held to only two points after the break.
Redick’s experience as a former player and analyst was evident in the adjustment. He had previously dissected how the Denver Nuggets exploited the Lakers by forcing over-help and attacking weak points.
This time, Los Angeles dictated terms. Marcus Smart anchored the effort with defensive leadership, while Jarred Vanderbilt, Jackson Hayes and Drew Timme executed their roles with discipline and intensity.
By embracing a less orthodox approach and demanding defensive accountability from his star guard, JJ Redick addressed a flaw that opponents have exploited for years.
The challenge now lies in consistency. If the Lakers can reproduce this level of cohesion and commitment, the “weird” adjustment may become a defining feature rather than a one-off solution.
