Lakers’ preseason weakness has carried over despite 3-0 start

Despite starting the regular season with a 3-0 record, the Los Angeles Lakers continue to struggle significantly with defensive rebounding. In their comeback victory over the Utah Jazz on Sunday at Delta Center, the Lakers were outrebounded by 21 overall and gave up 20 offensive rebounds, resulting in a 34-11 second-chance points deficit. Ace Bailey led Utah with six offensive rebounds.

Lakers head coach JJ Redick and guard Austin Reaves emphasized the simple need to box out to solve the problem. Luka Doncic also took blame for early defensive rebounding lapses against Bailey. The Lakers rank second-to-last in defensive rebounding to begin the regular season, an issue that previously plagued them throughout the preseason.