Luka Doncic isn’t just dominating the court—he’s obliterating defenses. According to Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick, any team that dares to use drop coverage against the Dallas Mavericks superstar is making a critical mistake. After another jaw-dropping performance from Dončić, Redick issued a blunt reality check to the rest of the league: adapt or face the consequences.
JJ Redick’s Stark Warning on Defending Luka Dončić
Following a commanding victory over the Clippers, Redick didn’t mince words. His message was clear and direct:
“The nature of playing with Luka Dončić is, if you play drop coverage against him, you’re going to die.”
As he further elaborated, Redick said that the teams must either hedge aggressively or blitz Dončić to get him off his rhythm. Leaving space for him in pick-and-roll situations is the recipe for disaster. Dončić has been destroying drop coverage all season with his effortless mid-range jumpers and pinpoint passing to open teammates whenever defenders sag off. The lessons have been tough for the Clippers, and Redick wants the rest of the league to learn before it gets late.
What makes Luka Dončić an unstoppable force
What makes Dončić so dangerous? It is the ability to analyze defenses like no other. If the opponents drop back, he shoots the shot. If they blitz, he finds the open man. If they hedge, he uses his advanced footwork and passing to break them down. There is really no win scenario for the defenders.
It looks like Redick intended to state how much more effect Dončić has from such a terrific lineup of shooters around him: If you double-team Dončić, then you leave a lethal shooter wide open; if you stay home, then Dončić will carve you up himself.
Firepower of Offense by Lakers
Lakers offense
So does Redick's remark shed light on the offense's potential of the Lakers. LeBron James, the incoming Austin Reaves, along with the efficient Rui Hachimura, can stretch defenses beyond their limits. As of Monday's fixtures, the Lakers ranked sixth in overall shooting percentage as a team, measuring 48.1 percent, putting them in that nightmare of a contest to defend.
“We have to be better, and we’re going to figure that out,” Redick added, hinting at the Lakers’ commitment to refining their offensive schemes.
The NBA’s Luka Dončić Problem
Redick's concern, therefore, is not limited to the Lakers but is also a wake-up call for the whole league. Dončić is basically an unstoppable player today, and with a mix of skill, IQ, and supporting talents, he is a walking mismatch.
If teams do not change their defensive setups, they will get the same treatment as the Clippers. The question is not if Dončić will dominate; the question is if the rest of the league will figure out a way to slow him down.
The one thing that is beyond doubt is that Luka Dončić will not be slowing down anytime soon. And if JJ Redick's comments are anything to go by, the league better start paying attention.
