Los Angeles Lakers appear to be finding their rhythm at a crucial stage of the season, and a dominant victory over the Chicago Bulls offered a glimpse into the team’s evolving offensive identity.
At the center of that transformation is superstar guard Luka Doncic, whose recent performances are reshaping how Lakers attack opponents.
Doncic delivered a historic night against Chicago, erupting for 51 points, his first 50-point performance since joining the franchise.
While the scoring grabbed headlines, the bigger story lies in a key improvement that has quietly elevated Lakers’ offensive system.
JJ Redick highlights the game-changing skill
According to head coach JJ Redick, Doncic’s growing effectiveness from long range has become the catalyst for the team’s offensive surge.
Los Angeles Lakers insider emphasized that the Slovenian star’s three-point shooting stretch has dramatically expanded his impact on the court.
“I think his stretch is longer now,” Redick said of Doncic’s outside shooting. “Going back to January 1st, I think he shot a little under 40 percent. He’s been high volume, high efficiency for about two-and-a-half months now. It is so important because it just sets up the rest of his game.”
This improved shooting forces defenders to guard Luka Doncic further from the basket, opening lanes for drives, pick-and-roll actions, and playmaking opportunities for teammates.
Creating opportunities across the floor
Redick explained that Doncic’s influence extends well beyond scoring. His ability to read defenses and distribute the ball has unlocked scoring chances across the lineup.
“It can be a kill shot some nights, it can be a run stop some nights,” he said. “He made great reads out of the pick and roll, he got DA [Deandre Ayton] going, and he had some great spray-out paint touch looks for us.”
The impact was evident early in the game when Luka Doncic initiated a sequence that ended in an open three-pointer for Austin Reaves after a defensive collapse triggered by Deandre Ayton rolling to the rim.
“DA’s motor, LeBron’s unselfishness, extra passes, Luka just making the right play,” Redick said. “That play really set the tone for us offensively.”
The offensive evolution has also required adjustments from LeBron James, who recently returned from injury.