As the Los Angeles Lakers prepare for their preseason finale against the Denver Nuggets at Crypto.com Arena, they have not yet had the opportunity to field their full roster. Coach JJ Redick expressed that he is not concerned about this situation, stating, "Can’t control it, so it’s not even a concern. Play the guys you can play."
On Thursday, there was optimism regarding player availability, as Ziaire Williams participated fully in practice after dealing with left foot swelling, and Luka Doncic returned after resting during the previous game against the Warriors. This could allow the Lakers to utilize their preferred starting lineup for the first time this preseason.
Despite the potential for a healthier roster, the Lakers are focusing on improving two critical areas before their regular-season opener against the Golden State Warriors on October 21: defensive rebounding and ball security. These aspects have been problematic for the team in recent weeks.
Redick highlighted the need for improvement, stating, "I’d like us to do a better job taking care of the basketball, and I’d like us to do a better job on the defensive glass." He noted that practice on Thursday included box-out drills to emphasize these points.
Entering Thursday, the Lakers had the third-worst defensive rebounding rate at 63.1% and the second-worst turnover rate at 24.1% among all preseason teams. Despite efforts to reduce turnovers, they recorded 30 giveaways in a recent game against the Warriors.
Quentin Grimes commented on the team's ball security issues, attributing them to the integration of new players and the need for better communication and understanding of each other's playing styles. He expressed confidence that once the team finds its rhythm, the situation will improve.
Williams, the Lakers' second-tallest player at 6-foot-10, emphasized the importance of collective effort in rebounding, stating, "It just takes all five of us to gang rebound. Especially when [Walker Kessler]’s not in. We just gotta do a better job of just wanting it a little bit more. We’ll get there."